^ ,« «,.,.,„,  ^^^^.  «^ 


PRINCETON,     N.     J. 


o 


/Ciien^ea  €y.     /lur,    ^^vwzA>^    S.  JTy^/Uz/^A. 


Shelf. 


BV  4811  .S65  1851 

Smith 

,  James, 

fl. 

1841- 

-ca. 

1861 

Green 

pastures 

for 

the 

r.ori^  ' 

Q  jflni-lr 

€)^t  fdtllnn'B  Dailq  lUmcnilininrrr. 


GREEN   PASTURES 


LORD'S    FLOCK. 


KEY.  JAMES'^SMITH. 


FROM    THE    THIRTY-EIGHTH    LONDON    EDITION. 


NEW   YORK: 

ROBERT    CARTER    &    BROTHERS, 
No.    28  5    BROADWAY. 

1851. 


PREFACE. 


The  present  humble  work  is  a  pastoral  effort,  flowing 
from  love  to  the  Lord's  people,  and  a  desire  to  honor 
His  great  name.  It  is  an  acknowledged  fact,  that  many 
of  the  Lord's  people  are  living  far  below  their  privileges  ; 
and  are  walking  as  men,  not  aiming  singly  at  the  Lord's 
glory.  This  is  to  be  regretted ;  and  while  none  but  the 
Lord  the  Holy  Spirit  can  produce  the  change  we  desire 
to  witness,  yet  the  means  are  to  be  used,  and  we  must 
stir  up  their  pure  minds  by  way  of  remembrance.  Li 
this  little  work,  I  aim  to  speak  in  the  closet,  in  the  cot- 
tage, in  the  kitchen,  and  even  in  the  field,  to  the  different 
classes  of  the  Lord's  family ;  endeavoring  to  draw  them 
nearer  to  their  God  and  gracious  Father.  My  desire  is 
to  promote  the  power  of  godliness  ;  and  these  little 
pieces  are  written  to  convince,  comfort,  and  correct;  to 
fan  the  flame  of  devotion,  and  to  produce  holiness  of 
heart  and  life.  To  this  end  some  degree  of  sameness 
in  the  pieces,  and  a  repetition  of  some  important  truths, 
appeared   absolutely   necessary.     Habitual   dependence 


IV  PREFACE. 

upon  God  for  all  we  need,  acknowledging  the  hand  of 
God  in  all  we  receive,  and  walking  with  God,  notwith- 
standing all  that  may  happen  to  us  below,  enter  into 
the  veiy  vitals  of  genuine  Christianity  ;  and  it  is  only 
while  we  ai'e  thus  acting  that  we  enjoy  peace  with  God, 
and  walk  in  the  comforts  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  That  the 
Lord,  who  often  uses  weak  things  to  confound  the 
mighty,  may  bless  this  little  work  to  thy  good  and  Ilis 
glory, 

Is  the  prayer  of, 

Dear  Reader, 
Yours  in  the  Lord  Jesus, 

JAMES  SMITH. 


DAILY  REMEMBRANCER. 


JANUARY    1. 
Look  unto  inc.     Isaiah  xlv.  22. 

A  NEW  year's  morning  opens  upon  us,  ami  we 
are  still  exposed  to  sorrow,  Satan,  and  dis- 
appointment ;  sin  lives  in  us ;  and  a  thousand 
things  are  ready  to  distress  us;  but  our  God 
says,  "  Look  unto  me."  Look  unto  me  to-day. 
I  have  blessings  to  bestow.  I  am  waiting  to  be 
gracious.  I  am  your  Father  in  Jesus.  Believe 
that  I  am  deeply  interested  in  your  present  and 
eternal  welfare  :  that  all  I  have  promised,  I  will 
perform  :  that  I  am  with  you,  purposely  to  bless 
you.  I  cannot  be  unconcerned  about  anything 
that  affects  you;  and  I  pledge  myself  to  make 
all  things  work  together  for  your  good.  You 
have  looked  to  self,  to  others,  in  time  past;  but 
you  have  only  met  with  trouble  and  disappoint- 
ment: now  look  unto  me  alone,  to  me  for  all. 

Our  helper,  God  !  we  bless  thy  name, 
Whose  love  forever  is  the  same  ; 
T!ie  tokens  of  thy  gracious  ca.re 
Open,  and  crown,  and  close  the  year. 


JANUARY   2. 


Be  ye  thanlcful.     Col.  iii.  15. 

What  cause  to  be  thankful,  what  reason  to  be 
grateful  have  we !  Surrounded  by  mercies, 
bofh  temporal  and  spiritual.  If  we  look  back, 
we  ought  to  rejoice  that  God  hath  chosen  us 
in  Christ  Jesus,  before  the  foundation  of  the 
world ;  that  He  sent  His  only  begotten  Son 
into  the  world,  to  be  a  propitiation  for  our 
sins ;  that  He  sent  His  Holy  Spirit  into  our 
hearts,  to  convince  us  of  sin,  lead  us  to  Jesus, 
and  make  us  meet  for  heaven.  We  have  His 
v/ord  in  our  hands,  His  grace  in  our  hearts,  His 
mercies  in  our  houses,  and  His  heaven  before 
our  eyes.  O  for  a  thankful  heart !  But  let  us 
take  our  poor,  hard,  ungrateful  hearts  to  Jesus ; 
He  can  soften  them  and  fill  them  with  grati- 
tude. Let  us  confess  our  ingratitude  before 
Him,  and  mourn  over  our  unthankfulness  at 
His  feet.  He  is  ready  to  forgive.  He  can 
sanctify  us  wholly.  He  will  hear  our  cry,  and 
pity  our  complaints.  O  Jesus,  grant  us  a  deep 
sense  of  our  utter  unworthiness,  and  of  Thine 
unmerited  goodness,  that  our  souls  may  daily 
praise  Thee  with  joyful  lips.  May  we  live 
as  thoughtful  dependants ;  as  grateful,  loving 
children,  before  our  Father  and  our  God;  and 
daily  be  thankful. 


Through  a-U  eternity,  to  Thee 
A  joyful  song  I'll  raise ; 

But,  oh !  eternity's  too  short 
To  utter  all  Thy  praise. 


JANUARY   3. 


A  Mediator.     Gal.  iii.  20. 

God  is  and  must  be  the  eternal  enemy  of  sin. 
He  cannot  bo  rcoonciloJ  to  it :  it  is  the  abomi- 
nable thing  whicli  He  hates.  He  cannot  look 
upon  it  but  witii  abhorrence.  Ho\y  then  can 
God  receive,  bless,  or  commune  with  us  ? 
Only  through  a  Mediator ;  Jesus  fills  this 
offioe ;  He  stands  between  God  and  us ;  He 
honors  all  the  Father's  perfections ;  and  ren- 
ders us  and  our  services  acceptable  through  His 
glorious  righteousness  and  precious  blood.  God 
can  only  love  us,  receive  us,  commune  with  us, 
or  bless  us,  in  Jesus.  He  represents  us  to  God, 
and  we  are  accepted  in  the  beloved  ;  He  rep- 
resents God  to  us,  and  we  prove  Him  to  be 
gracious.  When  going  to  the  throne  of  grace, 
never  forget  that  Jesus  is  the  Mediator  ;  the 
middle  man  ;  present  your  persons,  your  peti- 
tions, and  your  praises  to  God  through  Him. 
You  have  nothing  to  fear,  for  Jesus  wears  your 
nature ;  He  has  a  heart  that  beats  in  unison 
with  yours  ;  He  calls  you  brother  ;  He  uses 
all  His  influence  with  the  Father  on  your  be- 
half; all  He  did  tind  suffered  is  employed  for 
you  ;  and  at  this  moment  He  pleads  your 
cause. 

Oft  as  guilt,  my  soul,  torments  thee. 

Turn  thine  eyes  to  Jesus'  blood ; 
This  Avill  comfort,  cheer,  and  cleanse  thee, 

Seal  thy  peace,  and  do  thee  good : 
Peace  and  pardon, 

Flow  to  thef  thronp-h  Jo.-us'  blood. 


JANUARY    4. 


Blessed  are  ye  poor.     Luke  vi.  20. 

The  Lord's  people  are  all  poor ;  they  see  and 
feel  that  sin  has  stripped  them  of  every  excel- 
lence ;  and  has  left  them  wretched,  and  mise- 
rable, and  poor,  ami  blind,  and  naked.  They 
can  do  nothing  of  themselves,  they  can  procure 
nothing  ;  but  free  grace  has  made  ample  pro- 
vision for  them,  and  the  gospel  informs  them 
that  Jesus  has  everything  they  want,  and  all 
He  has  is  for  them.  When  they  look  at,  or 
into  themselves,  they  are  discouraged;  but 
when  they  look  to  Jesus  they  rejoice.  He  has 
riches  of  grace,  and  riches  of  glory ;  and  He 
says,  "  Every  one  that  asketh,  receiveth."  He 
giveth  liberally  and  upbraideth  not.  Here 
then  is  the  present  blessedness  of  the  Lord's 
poor ;  Jesus  has  all  they  need ;  He  is  their 
Friend ;  and  they  that  seek  Him  shall  not  want 
any  good  thing.  Am  I  poor  ?  If  so,  Jesus 
bids  me  come  to  Him,  and  buy  gold,  clothing, 
wine  and  milk  ;  all  that  is  necessary  to  comfort 
and  support  in  time,  and  render  me  happy 
throughout  eternity.  Poor  in  self,  rich  in 
Jesus.  Poor  at  present,  rich  by-and-bye  ;  for 
theirs  is  the  kingdom  of  heaven.  "  All  things 
are  yours,  ye  are  Christ's,  and  Christ  is  God's." 
"  All  things  are  for  your  sakes." 

Wliat  want  shall  not  our  God  supijly, 

From  His  redundant  stores  ? 
What  streams  of  mercy  from  on  hi'j-li, 

An  arm  almighty  pours  ! 


JANUARY    5. 


The  fear  of  death.     Heb.  ii.  15. 

Ai,L  must  die,  bvit  all  do  not  die  alike;  some 
arc  cut  off  suddenly,  others  by  a  lingering  ill- 
ness ;  some  die  only  safe,  others  happy.  Some 
fear  death  all  their  lives,  others  do  not.  But 
death  must  be  viewed  through  Jesus,  or  fear  it 
we  shall,  if  we  think  seriously.  Death  is  a 
separation  from  the  body  ;  the  second  death  is 
a  separation  from  God.  The  former  we  must 
pass  through,  not  so  the  latter.  What  shall 
separate  us  from  the  love  of  God  ?  Death  ? 
No,  we  are  more  than  conquerors  through  Him 
that  hath  loved  us.  Death  only  opens  the 
prison-door,  and  sets  the  captive  free.  It  is  an 
answer  to  our  many  prayers  for  deliverance,  for 
freedom  from  sin,  for  perfect  happiness.  If  we 
are  united  to  Jesus  by  a  living  faith,  death 
cannot  disunite  us  ;  but  will  only  introduce  us 
into  His  presence,  that  wo  may  forever  enjoy 
His  love.  If  we  walk  with  God ;  if  we  believe 
the  Saviour's  word ;  if  we  look  beyond  the 
valley ;  we  shall  not  fear  death.  Jesus  will 
not  leave  us  then.  He  will  be  present  ac- 
cording to  His  word,  and  we  shall  prove  His 
faithfulness,  veracity,  and  love.  "  Thanks  be 
unto  God  who  giveth  us  the  victory,  through  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ." 


Why  should  I  shrink  at  pain  and  woe, 

Or  feel  at  death  dismay  ? 
Fve  Canaan's  goodly  land  in  view, 

And  realms  of  endless  day. 


1* 


JANUARY  6. 


Be  careful  for  nothing.     Phil.  iv.  6. 

The  Lord  carcth  for  us.  Ho  knows  our  wants, 
and  has  promised  to  supply  them;  our  foes, 
and  will  deliver  us  from  them;  our  fears,  and 
will  make  us  ashamed  of  them.  All  creatures 
and  things  are  in  His  hand,  and  at  His  dis- 
posal ;  all  circumstances  are  absolutely  under 
His  control ;  He  directs  the  angel,  feeds  the 
sparrow,  curbs  the  devil,  and  manages  the 
tempest.  He  is  thy  Father.  His  love  to  thee 
is  infinite.  Thou  art  His  Delight,  His  dear 
son,  His  pleasant  child.  Will  He  neglect 
thee  ?  Impossible.  Cast  then  thy  cares  upon 
Him.  Tell  out  all  thy  desires,  fears,  and 
troubles  to  Him  ;  let  Him  know  everytliing 
FROM  THEE,  kccp  nothing  back  :  and  then  in 
the  confidence  of  faith  expect  Him  to  fulfil  His 
word,  and  act  a  parent's  part.  Bless  Him  for 
all  He  has  given,  for  all  He  has  promised; 
plead  with  Him  for  all  you  may  need ;  but 
never  for  one  moment,  or  under  any  circum- 
stances, distrust  Him.  He  cannot  love  thee 
more.  He  is  a  present  help.  He  will  make 
all  His  goodness  pass  before  thee.  He  will 
rejoice  over  thee  to  do  thee  good,  with  His 
whole  heart,  and  with  His  whole  soul. 


Then  let  me  banish  anxious  cai'e, 
Confiding  in  ray  Father's  love ; 
To  Him  make  known  my  wants  in  prayer, 
Preparud  His  answer  to  approve. 
10 


JANUARY    7. 


Let  him  deny  himself.     Matt.  xvi.  24. 

It  is  required  by  Jesus  that  every  disciple 
should  practise  self-denial;  we  must  deny  and 
crucify  the  workings  of  self- righteousness,  and 
venture  alone  upon  His  work  and  worth  for 
salvation ;  and  we  must  mortify  the  pride  of 
reason  and  intellect,  and  believe  as  His  word 
reveals,  and  walk  as  His  word  directs.  Our 
nearest  relatives,  dearest  friends,  and  choicest 
comforts,  must  be  resigned,  if  they  are  opposed 
to  His  glory  and  the  furtherance  of  His  cau.se. 
A  Christian  must  lay  everything  at  the  feet  of 
Jesus,  and  say,  "  Lord,  do  with  it  as  thou  wilt." 
We  are  not  our  own,  nor  is  anything  we  have 
our  own ;  it  is  the  Lord's.  Our  appetites, 
pleasures,  and  pursuits,  must  all  be  brought 
into  subjection  to  the  obedience  of  Christ.  His 
glory  is  to  be  sought  at  all  times,  in  all  things, 
under  all  circumstances,  and  when  this  is  done, 
we  are  safe  and  happy.  The  servant  must 
obey  his  Master,  and  the  child  submit  in  all 
things  to  the  wise,  judicious,  and*  loving  Father. 
But  for  whom  am  I  called  to  deny  myself? 
For  Jesus,  who  lived  and  died  to  save  me,  and 
is  now  in  heaven  interceding  for  me ;  and  who 
is  the  great  pattern  of  self-denial,  having  hum- 
bled Himself  even  unto  death. 


Ecloved  self  must  be  denied, 
The  mind  and  will  renew'd  ; 

Passion  suppress'd,  and  patience  tried, 
And  vain  desires  subdued. 


11 


JANUARY    §. 


/  will  help  thee.     Isaiah  xli.  13. 

Wherever  the  Lord  leads  us,  Ho  will  support 
us ;  nor  shall  the  difficulties  of  the  way,  or  the 
weakness  we  feel,  be  too  much  for  us.  His 
hand  is  stretched  out  to  us,  and  it  is  for  faith 
to  lay  hold  and  proceed,- confident  of  assistance. 
The  arm  of  His  power  is  the  protection  of  His 
people  in  danger,  and  the  strength  of  His  people 
in  weakness.  He  is  a  very  present  help  in  trou- 
ble. A  God  at  hand.  Are  you  weak,  or  in 
difficulty  ?  Plead  His .  word  ;  it  is  plain, 
positive,  and  sure;  He  cannot  lie;  He  will  not 
deceive.  His  strength  is  made  perfect  and  is 
glorified  in  your  weakness.  Fear  not,  under- 
neath are  everlasting  arms.  Ho  will  strengthen 
you  with  strength  in  your  soul.  He  can  help, 
for  He  is  omnipotent ;  He  will  help,  for  He 
has  given  you  His  word.  Trust  in  the  Lord  at 
all  times ;  yea,  trust  in  the  Lord  forever,  for  in 
the  Lord  Jehovah  is  everlasting  strength.  That 
strength  is  promised  to  you,  and  will  be  em- 
ployed for  you  in  answer  to  prayer.  Why  then 
are  ye  so  fearful  ?  Why  cast  down  ?  He  says, 
"  I  AviLL  HELP  THEE."  "  He  hath  said,  and 
shall  He  not  do  it  ?  He  hath  spoken,  and  shall 
He  not  make  it  good  ?" 


Fear  not,  I  am  with  thcc ;   oh,  bo  not  dismay 'cl  ! 

I,  I  am  thy  God,  and  will  still  give  thee  aid ; 

1"11  strengthen  thee,  help  thee,  and  cause  thee  to  stand, 

Upheld  by  my  rightcoui',  omnipotent  hand. 


12 


JAXUARY    9. 


Gethsemane.     Matt.  xxvi.  36. 

Tins  ^vas  a  garden  at  the  foot  of  ]\Iount 
Olivet ;  here  Jesus,  as  the  suBSTiTuxE  of  His 
people,  received  the  cup  of  wrath  from  the 
hand  of  His  offended  Father.  It  was  the  wrath 
of  God,  all  we  had  deserved,  the  punishment 
we  must  have  endured ;  the  Son  of  God  in  our 
nature,  in  our  stead,  for  our  salvation,  was 
punished  by  divine  justice.  No  human  hand 
touched  Him,  no  human  voice  spake  to  Him, 
when  He  sweat  great  drops  of  blood  falling  down 
to  the  ground.  It  was  the  baptism  He  ex- 
pected, and  oh,  how  great  was  His  love  I  The 
baptism  He  longed  to  undergo.  See  the  won- 
derful suiTerer,  hear  His  dreadful  groans,  listen 
to  His  heart-breaking  sighs  ;  heaven  and  hell 
are  astonished,  only  man  remains  unaffected. 
Beloved,  it  is  our  Surety  ;  He  is  paying  our 
debt,  redeeming  our  souls,  purchasing  our 
happiness,  and  making  our  peace.  He  went  to 
Gethsemane  that  we  might  not  go  to  hell  ;  He 
was  punished  that  we  might  be  glorified.  Often, 
very  often,  visit  this  sacred  spot;  here  have 
fellowship  with  Christ  in  His  sufferings  by 
faith.  O  ray  soul,  I  charge  thee  to  visit  Geth- 
semane, and  visit  it  very  often,  for  fellowship 
with  Jesus  ! 

The  Father  heard, — and  angels  there 
Sustained  the  Son  of  God  in  prayer, 

In  sad  a||(;hsemane ; 
He  drank  tiie  dreadful  cup  of  pain, 
Then  rose  to  joy  and  life  again. 

13 


JANUARY    10. 


/  am  a  worm.     Psaloi  xxii.  6. 

Man  is  naturally  poor  and  proud,  but  grace 
strips  him  and  humbles  him  in  the  dust.  Here 
the  highly  favored  David,  the  man  after  God's 
own  heart,  cries  out,  "  I  am  a  worm."  How 
little,  how  despicable  he  appeared  in  his  own 
eyes.  Every  one  that  humbleth  himself  shall 
be  exalted.  You  have  looked  at  Bible  saints, 
and  have  sighed  out,  "Ah!  they  were  not  like 
me!"  My  brother,  are  you  not  a  poor,  weak, 
worthless  worm  ?  Do  you  not  feel  so  ?  Well, 
so  did  David.  The  less  you  are  in  your  own 
eyes,  the  more  fit  you  are  for  the  Lord  Jesus, 
and  the  more  welcome  will  you  be  at  the 
throne  of  grace.  But  this  was  the  language 
also  of  David's  Lord ;  this  was  the  view  the 
Jews  had  of  Him,  and  they  treated  Him  ac- 
cordingly. The  brightness  of  glory  is  com- 
pared to  a  vile  reptile ;  the  express  image  of 
the  Father's  person  is  treated  with  the  great- 
est contempt.  But  it  was  for  us  men,  and  for 
our  salvation.  O  mystery  of  mercy  !  Jesus  is 
reduced  to  a  level  with  the  worm,  that  he  may 
be  raised  higher  than  the  angels. 

From  Bethlehem's  inn  to  Calvary's  cross — 

Affliction  mark'd  His  road  ; 
And  many  a  weary  step  He  took, 

To  bring  us  back  to  God. 

By  men  despised,  rejected,  scoi"n'd, 

No  beauty  they  can  see ;    ^ 
With  grace  and  glory  all  adom'd, 
Tlie  loveliest  form  to  me. 
14 


JANUARY    11. 


Come  unto  mc.     Matt.  xi.  28. 

Jesus  calls  thee  to  His  throne  ;  He  is  there 
waiting  to  hear,  relieve,  and  bless  you.  You 
are  to  go  to  Him  just  as  you  are,  and  receive 
from  Him  all  you  need.  He  will  give  you  wis- 
dom, to  direct  your  steps ;  peace,  to  keep  your 
hearts  ;  strength,  to  do  His  will ;  righteousness, 
to  justify  your  souls;  and  rest,  imspeakably 
sweet.  He  is  glorified  in  bestowing  these 
blessings  upon  you.  He  calls  you  this  morning, 
this  MOMENT,  to  receive  without  money  and 
without  price.  What  a  precious  Saviour  is 
Jesus  !  What  a  kind  and  tender  Friend  !  Let 
us  go  boldly  to  the  throne  of  grace,  that  we  may 
obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to  help  in  time  of 
need.  ''Come,'*  He  says,  "come  to  me;  go 
not  to  self,  to  the  world,  to  the  empty  cisterns 
which  creatures  idolize ;  but  come  unto  me, 
and  I  will  do  for  you  exceeding  abundantly 
above  all  you  can  ask  or  think.  Your  sins  I 
will  pardon  ;  your  graces  I  will  revive  ;  your 
comforts  I  will  restore ;  your  holiness  I  will 
increase ;  your  efforts  to  glorify  me  I  will 
crown  with  success ;  I  will  bless  you,  and  you 
shall  be  a  blessing."  "  Oh,  how  great  is  thy 
goodness  which  thou  hast  laid  up  for  them  that 
seek  thee  ;  which  thou  hast  wrought  for  them 
that  trust  in  thee,  before  the  sons  of  men !" 

Jesus,  ■with  thy  word  complying, 
Firm  our  faith  and  hope  shall  be ; 

On  thy  faithfulness  relying. 
We  will  cast  our  souls  on  Thee. 

15 


JANUARY    12. 


I  fjo  inournincf.     Psalm   xxxviii.  6. 

But  what  is  the  cause  of  your  mourning?  There 
is  nothing  apart  from  Jesus  worth  mourning 
for,  or  beside  sin  worth  mourning  over.  Is  it 
because  of  the  unevenness  of  thy  walk  with 
God  ?  On  account  of  the  deep  depravity  of 
thy  nature  ?  Because  men  keep  not  God's 
law  ?  Or  because  Jesus  hides  His  face,  and 
your  evidences  fade  and  wither  !  You  may 
well  mourn  after  Jesus,  but  you  must  not 
despond  ;  for  He  will  turn  again,  He  will  have 
compassion  upon  you.  The  depravity  of  the 
heart  is  enough  to  make  an  angel  weep  ;  but 
forget  not  the  precious  blood  that  cleanseth,  or 
the  promised  grace  that  sanctifies.  Look  not 
too  much  at  the  defects  which  appear  in  your 
walk,  nor  at  the  corruption  which  works  in 
your  heart  ;  but  deal  with  the  blood  and  grace 
of  Jesus,  as  the  means  of  thy  cure.  Read  and 
believe  His  promises ;  confess  and  plead  at  His 
throne  ;  wait  and  watch  in  His  ways ;  be  care- 
ful lest  by  inordinate  mourning  you  grieve  His 
Spirit.  He  cannot  be  unkind,  He  never  will 
forsake  you.  He  was  anointed  "to  comfort  all 
that  mourn." 


Why  should  the  children  of  a  king 
Go  mourning  all  their  days  ? — 

Great  Comforter  !  descend,  and  bring 
Some  tokens  of  thy  grace. 

Dost  thou  not  dwell  in  all  the  saints, 
And  seal  the  heirs  of  heaven  ? 
16 


JANUARY    13. 


Let  him  ask  in  faith.     James  i.  6. 

The  believer's  prayers  should  be  regulated  by- 
God's  promises  ;  he  often  fancies  he  wants  what 
would  only  do  him  harm ;  and,  therefore,  if  he 
ask  he  is  denied,  not  in  anger  but  in  love.  God 
has  promised  all  good,  and  only  good,  to  His  be- 
loved people.  Ask  for  what  God  has  promised 
to  bestow,  and  ask  believing  that  God  will  honor 
and  fulfil  His  own  precious  word.  He  cannot 
deny  Himself;  all  He  hath  promised  He  will 
perform.  You  can  therefore  have  no  reason  to 
doubt  whether  the  Lord  will  give  you,  if  you 
really  need  it,  and  he  has  plainly  promised  it ; 
therefore  ask  desiring,  and  expecting,  and  then 
look  to  receive.  What  are  thy  wants  this  morn- 
ing ?  Where  hath  God  promised  such  things  in 
His  holy  word  ?  Search  out  the  promise,  take 
it  to  His  throne,  plead  in  the  name  of  Jesus  for 
its  fulfilment,  and  never  doubt  for  one  moment 
but  that  the  Lord  will  make  it  good.  Stay 
yourself  therefore  on  the  word  of  the  Lord ;  but 
if  you  will  not  believe,  surely  you  shall  not  be 
established.  Faith  honors  God  by  trusting 
Him  ;  and  God  always  honors  faith  by  answer- 
ing it.  "  Come  boldly  to  the  throne  of  grace, 
that  you  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to 
help  in  time  of  need." 

Beyond  thy  utmost  wants, 
His  love  and  power  can  bless  ; 
To  praying  souls  He  always  grants 
M'ire  than  they  can  express. 

17 


JANUARY    14. 


Walk  circumspectly.     Ephes.  v.  15. 

You  are  in  an  enemy's  land  ;  surrounded  by 
temptations  ;  and  have  a  heart  that  is  deceitful 
above  all  things,  and  desperately  wicked.  To 
honor  Jesus  in  your  spirit,  communications, 
and  every  action,  should  be  your  constant  aim. 
You  are  to  live  ua'to  the  Lord,  for  Him  who 
died  for  you  and  rose  again.  To  this  end,  pro- 
vision was  laid  up  in  the  everlasting  covenant, 
for  this  purpose  the  precious  promises  were 
made,  and  with  this  design  the  Holy  Spirit  is 
given  ;  that  you  may  serve  Him  in  rightijousness 
and  holiness  all  the  days  of  your  life.  Tliis 
world  is  not  your  home  ;  Satan's  family  are  not 
to  be  your  associates  ;  riches,  honor,  or  pleasure, 
are  not  to  be  your  objects;  you  are  to  walk 
as  in  the  midst  of  snares ;  watchful,  prayerful, 
depending  upon  Jesus,  and  cultivating  fellow- 
ship with  Him.  Oh,  keep  your  eye  on  Jesus  as 
your  example;  walk  by  His  word  as  your  rule; 
be  not  venturesome  or  presumptuous,  but  avoid 
the  very  appearance  of  evil.  Never  leave  the 
Lord's  ways  or  ordinances,  to  join  tlie  world's 
parties  or  please  a  carnal  fancy.  Keep  close 
to  Jesus,  and  follow  on  to  know  the  Lord. 
Act  as  a  loving  child  going  home  to  his  father's 
house. 

So  let  our  lips  and  lives  express 
Tlie  holy  gospel  we  profess ; 
So  let  our  works  and  virtues  shine, 
To  prove  the  doctrine  all  divine. 
18 


JANUARY    15. 


But  thou,  art  the  same.     Ps.  cii.  27. 

Everything  below  is  liable  to  charifre  ;  health 
may  give  place  to  sickness,  pleasure  to  pain, 
plenty  to  poverty,  love  to  enmity,  honor  to 
disgrace,  strength  to  weakness,  and  life  to  death. 
Remember  the  days  of  darkness,  for  they  shall 
be  many.  But  though  all  our  circumstances  and 
friends  should  change,  there  is  one  who  never 
changes ;  He  is  in  one  mind,  and  none  can  turn 
Him.  With  Him  is  no  variableness.  He  is  the 
same  yesterday,  to-day,  and  forever ;  and  He  is 
our  best  friend,  our  nearest  relation,  our  gracious 
Saviour.  Yesterday,  His  name  was  Jesus  ;  His 
nature  was  love  ;  His  purpose  was  to  do  us  good 
with  his  whole  heart  and  soul :  ta-day.  He  is  the 
same  ;  we  cannot  expect  too  much  from  Him,  or 
be  too  confident  in  Him,  if  we  are  walking  hum- 
bly with  Him;  He  will  be  our  God  and  we 
shall  be  His  people.  Let  us  cultivate  inti- 
macy with  Him,  dependence  upon  Him,  con- 
cern to  please  Him,  fear  to  offend  Him,  zeal 
to  glorify  Him ;  and  it  must  be  well  with  us  in 
health  and  sickness,  plenty  and  poverty,  life  and 
death ;  for  He  is  the  same,  and  will  never  turn 
away  from  doing  us  good,  but  remain  the  foun- 
tain of  love  and  holiness  forever.  Praise  ye  the 
Lord. 

This  God  is  the  God  we  adore, 
Our  faithful — unchangeable  friend, 
"Whose  love  is  as  large  as  His  power, 
And  neither  knows  measure  nor  end. 

19 


JANUARY    16. 


Is  it  well  zvith  thcc?     2  KiHgs  iv.  26. 

Is  Jesus  precious  to  thy  soul  ?  Are  you  mourn- 
ing over  sin,  or  after  the  presence  of  your  be- 
loved Saviour  ?  Are  you  strong  in  faith,  giving 
glory  to  God  ?  Are  you  panting  for  communion 
with  your  heavenly  Father?  Is  the  world  be- 
neath your  feet?  Are  you  glowing  with  love 
to  all  saints  ?  Are  you  seeking  first  the  king- 
dom of  God  and  His  righteousness  ?  Are  you 
lying  at  the  feet  of  Jesus  in  trouble,  crying, 
Lord,  help  me  ?  If  so,  it  is  well  with  thee  : 
there  is  spiritual  life  in  thy  soul,  and  the  blessed 
Spirit  is  tiiy  teacher.  But  if  the  world  is  pre- 
ferred to  Jesus,  the  pleasures  of  time  to  fellow- 
ship with  God,  if  self-examination  is  neglected, 
and  the  Bible  is  become  dry  and  unsavory,  it  is 
not  well.  Plealth  of  soul  is  manifested  by  habit- 
ual prayer,  zeal  in  the  Lord's  cause,  an  appetite 
for  the  bread  of  life,  and  activity  in  the  Lord's 
ways.  Is  thy  scul  sick  ?  If  so,  apj)ly  at  once 
to  Jesus,  as  the  great  physician ;  and  plead 
with  Him  to  restore  unto  thee  the  joys  of  His 
salvation,  and  to  uphold  thee  with  His  free 
Spirit.  He  will  heal  thy  backslidings,  and  love 
thee  freely. 


'  Tis  well ;  my  soul  is  fill'd  with  joy, 
Thougli  in  myself  a  feeble  worm ; 
For  Jesus  will  His  power  employ, 
And  save  my  soul  in  every  storm  : 
He  will  His  gracious  word  fulfil, 
And  guard  my  soul  from  every  ill. 
20 


JANUARY    17. 


I  would  do  good.     Rom.  vii.  21. 

Every   believer   has  experienced   the  renewing 
of  the  Holy  Ghost;  sin  has  not  dominion  over 
hirn.     He  perceives  the  beauty  of  holiness,  and 
loathes   himself  on  account  of  sin.     He  would 
be  internally  holy,  and  externally  conformed  to 
the  precepts  of  the  Bible.     He  would  pray  with 
fervor ;     praise   with    gratitude ;     believe    with 
confidence ;    war   against   sin,    Satan,    and    the 
flesh,  with  courage ;   and  glorify  God  by  every 
feeling,   thought,   word,   and   action.     Thus    he 
feels,  and  for  this  he  prays  in  his  best  moments  ; 
but  he  finds  that  he  needs  the  frequent  renew- 
ing of  the  Holy  Spirit,  for  he  is  prone  to  sink 
into  coldness,  deadness,  darkness,  and  stupidity, 
and  he  is  obliged  to  cry  out,  "  lAIy  soul  cleaveth 
unto  the  dust ;   quicken  thou  me  according  unto 
thy    word."     The    Lord   must    work    in   us    to 
WILL  as  well  as  to  do  ;  for  by  nature  we  are  un- 
willing,  and   the   desire    after    holiness,    proved 
by  effort  to   obtain  it,  is  from   God.     Beloved, 
you  must  be  coming,  to  Jesus  daily  for  fresh 
supplies  of  the  Spirit,  or  you  will  find  yourself 
not  only  weak  but  careless  ;  not  only  v/iil  the 
power  of  godliness  decline,  but  you  will  become 
indifferent.     Watch  against  temptation.     Watch 
unto  prayer. 

0  Lord,  assist  me  through  the  fight, 

My  drooping  spirit  raise  ; 
Make  me  triumphant  in  thy  might, 

And  thine  sliall  be  the  praise. 

•21 


JANUARY    1§. 


Evil  is  present  ivith  inc.     Rom.  vii.  21. 

But  what  a  mercy  that  it  does  not  reign  in  you 
and  over  you ;  it  did  once,  and  would  now  but 
for  free  and  sovereign  grace.  If  sin  makes  you 
groan,  leads  you  to  the  throne  to  plead  with 
God,  and  to  the  fountain  of  the  Saviour's  blood 
to  be  cleansed  from  it,  it  does  not,  it  cannot 
reign.  It  may  disturb  your  peace,  distress 
your  mind,  hinder  you  in  duty,  mix  with  all 
your  duties  and  efforts  to  do  good ;  and  even 
make  you  cry  out,  "O  wretched  man  that  I  am, 
who  shall  deliver  me  ?"  But  even  then  you 
should  not  doubt ;  Jesus  still  loves  you,  grace 
will  reign  in  your  experience,  and  you  shall  be 
more  than  a  conqueror.  Paul  had  known  the 
Lord  many  years,  ho  had  been  in  the  third 
heaven,  and  daily  triumphed  in  Christ ;  yet  he 
felt  just  as  you  feel ;  when  he  would  do  good 
evil  was  present  with  him,  and  he  could  not  do 
the  things  that  ho  would.  If  sin  annoys  you, 
is  your  burden,  and  causes  you  grief;  holiness 
lives  in  you,  and  the  present  painful  conflict 
will  end  in  everlasting  peace.  You  may  even 
now  sing,  "  Thanks  be  unto  God,  who  giveth 
us  the  victory,  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ." 
Live  upon  Christ,  and  you  will  live  down  all 
evil. 


Oh  !  the  rich  depths  of  love  diviue, 
Of  bliss  a  boundless  store ! 

Dear  Saviour !  let  me  call  thee  mine ; 
I  cannot  wish  for  more. 
22 


JANUARY    19. 


My  brother.     Matt.  xii.  50. 

And  who  is  the  brother  of  Jesus?  Every  one 
who  does  the  will  of  His  Father.  Every  be- 
liever who  proves  the  truth  of  his  faith  by  the 
goodness  of  his  works ;  who  shows  the  excel- 
lence of  his  nature,  by,  the  piety,  benevolence, 
and  charity  of  his  life.  Believer,  Jesus  calls 
thee  BROTHER.  He  has  for  thee  a  brother's 
love.  Oh,  how  tender  !  Oh,  how  tried  !  Stronger 
than  death  ;  passing  knowledge.  He  bears 
with  thy  infirmities,  reproves  thy  follies, 
encourages  thy  faith,  forbids  thy  fears,  and 
will  certainly  provide  for  thy  wants.  Joseph 
in  Egypt  supplied  his  brethren  during  the 
famine,  and  shall  not  Jesus  supply  His  ?  If 
He  seem  to  speak  roughly,  He  v/ill  act  kindly, 
and  perform  a  brother's  part.  He  has  all 
power  in  heaven  and  in  earth.  He  doeth 
according  to  his  will,  and  He  is  not' ashamed 
to  call  us  brethren.  He  will  correspond  with 
us,  and  bids  us  daily,  yea  hourly,  correspond 
with  Him.  Oh,  remember,  when  you  go  to  the 
throne  of  grace,  that  your  brother  fills  it.  He 
calls  you  to  it,  and  will  withhold  no  good  thing 
from  you.  Precious  Lord  Jesus,  manifest  to 
me  a  brother's  love  ;  and  help  me  to  rely  on  tliy 
fraternal  kindness. 


Our  nearest  frienJ,  our  Brother  now, 
Is  He  to  whom  the  angels  bow ; 
Tliey  join  with  us  to  praise  His  natne, 
But  we  tlie  nearest  interest  claim. 

23 


JANUARY  20. 


The  xKiKilom  of  the  just.     Luke  i.  17. 

Tin:  Lord's  people  are  justified  freely,  by  His 
grace,  through  the  redemption  that  is  in  Christ 
Jesus.  The  work  of  Jesus  is  their  justification 
before  God :  in  this  they  trust :  this  they 
plead  :  and  in  this  they  rejoice.  Taught  by 
the  Holy  Spirit,  they  manifest  wisdom  in , 
readily  believing  God's  faithful  word,  and 
trusting  Him  to  make  good  the  same  to  them. 
They  resign  themselves  and  all  they  value  into 
His  hands  for  preservation,  and  to  be  entirely 
at  His  disposal,  persuaded  that  His  wisdom 
and  love  will  do  better  for  them,  than  they 
possibly  could  for  themselves.  They  refer  all 
things  to  God  for  His  decision,  and  cheerfully 
abide  by  His  sentence.  They  live  in  simple, 
child-like  dependence  upon  His  providence  and 
grace,  for  body  and  soul,  for  time  and  eternity, 
seeking  to  make  His  will  theirs.  They  walk 
in  charity  with  their  fellow-christians,  who 
differ  in  some  things  from  them,  and  would  do 
good  to  all,  especially  to  them  that  are  of  the 
household  of  faith.  Beloved,  do  you  manifest 
this  wisdom  ?  Do  you  walk  by  this  rule  ?  Do  you 
mind  the  same  things  ?  Have  you  the  wisdom 
that  is  from  above,  which  is  pure,  gentle,  easy 
to  be  entreated,  full  of  mercy  and  good  fruits  ? 

Boundless  wisdom,  power  divine, 
Love  unspeakable,  are  tliine  ; 
Wisdom,  Lord,  to  me  be  giv'n, 
Wisdom  pure,  Avhicli  comes  from  lieav'ii. 
24 


JANUARY    21. 


Ye  cannot  serve  God  and  mammon.    Matt-  vi.  24. 

Our  God  is  a  jealous  God.  He  requires  the 
devotion  of  the  heart,  the  consecration  of  all  the 
powers,  and  we  cannot  enjoy  religion  without 
these.  Persons  who  try  to  unite  God  and  the 
world,  the  service  of  sin  and  the  service  of  God, 
cannot  be  happy.  We  must  be  decided.  Well, 
who  is  to  be  God  to-day  ?  Who  is  to  have  the 
heart,  the  talents,  the  affections  to-day  ?  Is 
gain,  carnal  pleasure,  or  worldly  company  to 
be  the  idol  to-day  ?  Or,  is  Jesus  to  have  the 
thoughts,  the  desires,  and  the  talents  ?  Shall 
we  seek  His  glory,  and  aim  at  His  honor  ?  Or, 
shall  we  say  to  some  worthless  bramble,  Come 
thou  and  reign  over  us?  Choose  you,  whom 
will  you  serve  ?  Attempt  not  to  reconcile 
opposing  claims,  bat  let  God  or  mammon  have 
the  whole.  Surely  you  are  ready  to  cry  out, — 
"Thine  am  I,  Jesus,  and  thee  only  will  I 
serve  I"  But  you  can  only  serve  Him  accept- 
ably, as  you  serve  Him  with  the  grace  He 
imparts  ;  He  has  provided,  promised,  and 
invites  you  to  receive.  Let  us  therefore  have 
grace  whereby  wo  may  serve  God  acceptably 
with  reverence  and  godly  fear.  Serving  God  in 
the  spirit  of  adoption  is  true  happiness. 

Oh,  let  Thy  love  my  soul  inflame, 
And  to  Thy  service  sweetly  bind  ; 
Transfuse  it  through  my  inmost  frame, 
And  mould  me  wholly  to  Thy  mind. 

25 


JANUARY  22. 


I  am  thy  shield.     Gen.  xv.  1. 

They  that  believe  are  blessed  with  believing 
Abraham ;  the  promises  God  made  to  him,  He 
will  fulfil  to  us.  "We  are  surrounded  by  foes  ; 
fiery  darts  fly  in  every  direction  ;  but  Jehovah, 
in  Jesus,  interposeth  Himself  as  our  shield. 
Our  safety  and  protection  is  from  our  relation 
to  Him ;  we  should  soon  be  overcome  if  He 
did  not  preserve  and  defend.  How  safe  and 
how  happy  we  feel,  when  we  realize  that  our 
God  is  our  defence,  and  the  most  high  God 
our  protector  !  If  foes  alarm,  or  dangers 
affright,  yet  remember,  "  The  name  of  the 
Lord  is  a  strong  tower,"  you  may  run  into 
that  and  be  safe.  Faith  is  the  arm  ;  Jehovah 
is  the  shield;  with  Satan,  sin,  and  the  world 
we  are  in  conflict ;  but  we  are  preserved  as 
in  a  garrison  by  the  power  of  God,  through 
believing,  unto  salvation.  My  brother,  look 
to  Jesus  through  this  day  as  thy  shield,  and 
expect  safety  and  protection  alone  from  Him ; 
He  is  present  to  protect  thee,  and  answer  thy 
prayers.  He  will  thus  preserve  thy  going  out 
and  coming  in,  from  this  time  forth,  and  even 
for  evermore.  He  will  give  thee  the  shield  of 
His  salvation,  and  His  gentleness  will  make 
thee  great. 

His  righteousness  to  faith  reveal'd, 

Wrought  out  for  guilty  worms, 
Aflfords  a  hiding-place  and  shield, 

From  enemies  and  storms. 
20 


JANUARY   23. 


Whi/  arc  ye  so  fearful?    Mark  iv.  40. 

The  disciples  appeared  to  be  in  danger,  and 
fear  filled  their  hearts  ;  they  did  not  realize 
that  they  were  the  care  and  charge  of  Jesus, 
or  else  knowing  Him  their  fears  could  have  had 
no  place.  Beloved,  you  are  in  the  hands  of 
your  loving  Saviour ;  He  has  charge  of  you 
and  all  your  concerns  ;  He  has  numbered  the 
very  hairs  of  your  head,  and  watches  over  you 
every  mojnent,  by  night  as  well  as  by  day. 
He  is  ever  present,  His  eye  cannot  be  divert- 
ed from  you.  His  omnipotence  is  engaged  to 
defend  you,  His  fulness  to  supply  you.  His 
wisdom  to  guide  you,  and  His  perfections 
will  be  glorified  in  your  everlasting  holiness 
and  happiness.  He  says,  "  I  am  glorified  in 
them.-'  Why  are  ye  so  fearful?  Jesus  is  a 
very  present  help,  He  is  a  friend  that  loveth 
at  all  times.  He  is  your  shield,  and  will  be 
your  exceeding  great  reward.  But  perhaps 
you  have  wandered  from  Him;  your  conscience 
accuses,  and  Satan  tempts  you  to  despond ;  go, 
go  and  return  unto  Him.  delay  not  a  moment, 
cast  yourself  guilty  as  you  are  at  His  feet, 
confess  all,  and  give  yourself  to  Him  afresh. 
He  will  receive  you  graciously,  love  you  freely, 
and  restore  the  joys  of  His  salvation. 

The  saints  should  never  be  dlsmay'd, 

Nor  sink  in  hopeless  fear ; 
For  -R-lien  they  least  expect  His  aid, 

The  Savioui-  will  appear. 

27 


JANUARY    2  4. 


Ye  are  not  your  own.     1  Cor.  vi.  19. 

No — Jesus  has  purchased  you  with  His  own 
blood,  quickened  you  by  His  Spirit,  espoused 
you  to  Himself,  and  intends  to  glorify  you  with 
Himself  forever.  He  claims  you,  and  says, 
"  I  have  called  thee  by  thy  name :  thou  art 
mine."  He  will  provide  for  you  as  His  own, 
and  spare  you,  as  a  man  spareth  his  own  son 
that  serveth  him.  You  are  His  beloved  bride. 
His  portion.  A  member  of  His  body,  of  His 
flesh,  and  of  His  bones.  In  loving  you.  He 
loveth  Himself.  He  requires  you  to  live  vmder 
the  daily  conviction  that  you  are  His ;  that  all 
you  have  is  His.  You  have  nothing  of  your 
own ;  all  you  have  He  freely  gave,  and  all  you 
have  you  profess  to  have  surrendered  to  Him. 
Think  more  of  Jesus  than  of  His  gifts,  cleave 
to  Him,  and  not  to  what  yovi  may  be  called  to 
surrender.  He  will  never  take  anything  from 
you,  but  He  will  give  you  something  better. 
If  He  strip  you,  it  is  to  teach  you  ;  to  lead  you 
to  live  upon  Himself;  and  to  find  your  heaven 
in  His  company,  grace,  and  ofHces.  Do  you 
live,  walk,  and  act,  so  as  to  leave  the  impression 
upon  the  minds  of  observers  that  you  are  the 
Lord's  ?  Do  you  expect  Him  to  preserve,  guide, 
and  supply  you  ? 

Lord  !  am  I  thine,  entirely  thine? 
Purchased  and  saved  by  blood  divine  ? 
"With  full  consent  thine  I  would  be, 
And  own  thy  sovereign  right  in  me. 
28 


JANUARY   25. 


Ye  are  my  friendn.     John  xv.  14. 

What  infinite  condescension  in  Jesus ;  to  call 
us  worms,  His  friends !  But  He  not  only  calls 
us  so,  but  treats  us  as  such,  and  expects  us  as 
friends  to  do  whatsoever  He  commands  us. 
Is  Jesus  thy  friend  ?  Then  visit  Him  often,  let 
him  hear  thy  voice  in  prayer  and  praise  ;  then 
trust  Him  confidently,  let  him  see  a  proof  of 
thy  faith  in  thy  dependence  ;  then  walk  with 
Him  in  love,  let  Him  enjoy  much  of  thy  com- 
pany ;  then  expect  Him  to  be  thy  friend  in 
sickness  and  health  ;  in  poverty  and  plenty ;  in 
life  and  in  death.  If  Jesus  is  our  friend,  we 
can  never  be  destitute ;  if  father  and  mother 
forsake,  He  will  take  us  up  and  take  us  in ;  we 
can  never  be  miserable.  He  will  receive  us  and 
be  a  Father  unto  us  ;  we  can  never  be  neglect- 
ed, for  He  will  never  fail  us  nor  forsake  us, 
but  will  do  for  us  all  He  has  promised  in  His 
word.  He  will  defend  us  from  foes,  visit  us  in 
sickness,  and  cheer  and  support  us  in  death. 
Precious  Lord  Jesus,  be  thou  my  friend,  call 
me  thy  friend,  and  treat  me  as  such,  in  life,  in 
death,  at  the  judgment,  and  before  thy  Father's 
face  forever. 


Oh  let  us  make  His  name  our  trust, 
He  is  a  Saviour  wise  and  just ; 
On  His  almighty  arm  depend, 
He  is  a  tried  and  faithful  friend ; 
And  all  His  friends  shall  shortly  prove 
The  power  and  glory  of  His  love. 

29 


JANUARY  26. 


/  will  instruct  thee.     Psalin  xxxli.  8. 

At  best  we  know  but  little,  and  we  are  slow  to 
learn  :  but  as  the  Lord  has  promised  to  instruct 
US,  we  may  yet  expect  to  be  made  wise  unto 
salvation.  The  Lord's  teaching  always  produ- 
ces humility,  self-loathing,  confidence  in  God, 
zeal  for  His  glory,  and  devotes  the  heart  to  His 
praise.  It  brings  us  to  the  feet  of  Jesus,  and 
delivers  us  from  the  present  evil  world.  Under 
divine  instruction  we  learn  the  true  nature 
of  sin,  the  vanity  of  the  world,  the  emptiness 
of  creatures,  and  the  fulness  and  preciousness 
of  Christ.  Is  God  willing  to  instruct  us  ? 
Then  let  us  be  early  and  often  at  His  throne, 
praying  as  the  Psalmist  did,  "  Lead  me  in 
thy  truth,  and  teach  me  :  for  thou  art  the  God 
of  my  salvation  ;  on  thee  do  I  wait  all  the  day." 
Then  shall  we  exclaim  as  Elihu  did,  "  Behold, 
God  exalteth  by  His  power  :  who  teacheth  like 
Him  ?"  The  Lord  will  teach  us  to  profit,  and 
sanctify  us  through  the  truth  Ho  im])arts. 
Christ  is  our  great  lesson,  and  to  know  Him 
rightly  is  life,  peace,  and  joy.  Is  Jesus  thy 
l^eacher  ?  Then  sit  at  His  feet,  treasure  up  His 
words,  and  show  forth  His  praise.  He  says, 
"  Learn  of  me."  Learn  to  know  Him,  love 
Him,  and  obey  Him. 

Eternal  life  thy  words  Impart ; 
On  these  my  fainting  spirit  lives : 
Here  sweeter  comforts  cheer  my  lieart, 
Than  the  whole  world  around  me  gives. 
30 


JANUARY    2T. 


Lacked  ye  anything  ?    Luke  xxii.  35. 

The  Lord  will  always  provide  for  His  own 
people,  who  keep  His  company,  do  His  will,  and 
aim  at  His  glory.  If  He  sends  us,  though  He 
chooses  to  carry  the  purse,  our  bread  shall  be 
given,  and  our  water  shall  be  sure.  The  dis- 
ciples went  out  unfurnished,  but  then  Jesus 
commanded  them  ;  they  return  and  confess 
that  they  lacked  nothing,  the  God  of  providence 
supplied  them.  If  we  are  in  the  Lord's  way, 
we  may  rest  assured  that  we  shall  meet  the 
Lord's  messengers  bringing  our  supply.  They 
that  seek  the  Lord  shall  not  want  any  good 
thing.  He  notices  our  wants,  remembers  His 
promises,  times  His  mercies,  and  proves  Him- 
self a  faithful  God.  Have  you  lacked  any- 
thing ?  for  body  ?  for  soul  ?  He  who  has  sup- 
plied the  past  will  provide  for  the  future. 
Jesus  is  full  of  grace ;  go  and  receive,  that 
your  joy  may  be  full.  Jesus  is  the  God  of 
providence  ;  look  to  Him,  trust  in  Him,  plead 
with  Him,  and  you  shall  never  be  destitute. 
Believe  His  word.  He  cannot  deny  himself; 
trust  in  His  faithfulness,  and  He  will  put  honor 
upon  thy  faith,  fulfilling  His  own  word.  "  Thy 
bread  shall  be  given  thee,  and  thy  water  shall  be 
sure." 


E'en  down  to  old  age,  all  my  people  shall  prove 
My  sovereign,  eternal,  unchangeable  love ; 
And  when  hoary  hairs  shall  their  temples  adorn. 
Like  lambs  they  shall  still,  in  my  bosom,  be  borne. 

31 


JANUARY   2§. 


We  have  an  Advocate.     1  Jolin  ii.  1. 

Yes — Jesus  pleads  for  us  in  heaven  ;  by  His 
own  blood  He  entered  once  into  the  holiest, 
there  to  appear  in  the  presence  of  God  for  us. 
He  pleads  for  us  against  Satan,  answering  all 
his  accusations ;  and  for  us  with  the  Father, 
that  we  may  be  kept,  supplied  and  glorified. 
O  what  a  comfort  when  the  heart  is  straitened 
in  prayer,  when  the  mouth  is  closed  by  guilt, 
when  the  spirit  is  harassed  by  temptation,  to 
know  that  Jesus  as  our  Advocate  appears  and 
pleads  for  us  above !  Beloved,  Jesus  is  before 
God  for  YOU  this  morning,  and  every  morning ; 
and  the  benefit  of  His  intercession  you  daily 
enjoy.  When  doubting  and  ■  fearful,  put  yovir 
cause  afresh  into  His  hands,  and  leave  Him  to 
carry  it ;  He  can  plead  well ;  His  arguments 
are  powerful,  and  His  manner  is  divine.  Keep 
Jesus  before  thee  this  day  as  thy  Advocate  ; 
rejoice  in  His  office  and  name,  and  remember 
He  is  saying,  "  Father,  I  will  that  those  whom 
thou  hast  given  me,  be  with  me  where  I  am,  to 
behold  my  glory."  Him  the  Father  heareth  al- 
ways ;  and  all  for  whom  He  pleads  are  safe,  and 
shall  be  happy. 


Look  up,  my  soul,  with  cheerful  eyes, 
See,  ■where  the  great  Redeemer  stands 
The  glorious  Advocate  on  high, 
With  precious  incense  in  His  hands ; 
And  on  His  pleading  still  depend. 
Who  is  your  Advocate  and  Friend. 
32 


JANUARY    29. 


Search  the  Scriptures.     John  v.  39. 

The  Bible  is  God'^book,  a  favor  bestowed  on 
man  ;  intended  to  lead  him  to  a  knowledge  of 
the  nature,  perfections,  purposes,  will,  prov- 
idence, and  salvation  of  God.  It  contains  all 
that  is  really  necessary  to  be  known.  It  should 
be  read  carefully,  prayerfully,  frequently,  and 
in  course  ;  every  part  of  the  Bible  should  be 
read,  meditated  upon,  and  prayed  over.  It 
makes  us  wise  unto  salvation,  through  faith 
which  is  in  Christ  Jesus.  We  cannot  under- 
stand the  Scriptures,  or  gather  spiritual  profit 
therefrom  but  by  the  Holy  Ghost ;  nor  should 
we  expect  to  be  taught  the  mind  of  God  but  by 
the  Scriptures.  Praying,  reading,  and  think- 
ing, should  go  together ;  and  no  one  but  he 
who  has  proved  it,  can  pos.sibly  tell  the  profit 
which  may  be  thus  gained.  Let  the  Bible  be 
the  every-day  book.  In  it  God  speaks  to  your 
soul  ;  by  it  He  will  sanctify  your  nature, 
direct  your  steps,  and  give  you  joy  and  peace. 
Let  not  the  works  of  man  occupy  the  place  of 
the  book  of  God ;  but  search  the  Scriptures 
daily,  and  exercise  faith  therein,  "  Open  thou 
mine  eyes,  that  I  may  see  wondrous  things  out 
of  thy  law."  Unfold  to  me  the  riches  of  thy 
grace. 

0  may  thy  counsels,  mighty  God, 

My  roving  feet  command ; 
Nor  I  forsake  the  happy  road, 

That  leads  to  thy  right  hand. 

S3 


JANUARY    30. 


And  shah  thou  be  delivered?    Isa.  xxxvii.  11. 

This  is  plainly  the  language  of  an  insulting 
foe ;  he  had  triumphed,  and  now  he  boasted, 
but  his  power  was  bounded,  and  his  pride  pro- 
cured his  fall.  Often  when  in  trouble,  when 
distressed,  when  tried  by  a  sense  of  sin  and 
unworthiness,  unbelief  and  Satan  join,  and 
pointing  to  others  who  have  fallen,  and  to  our 
acknowledged  unworthiness,  insultingly  ask  the 
question,  "  And  shalt  thou  be  delivered  ?" 
Yes,  Satan,  we  shall  be  delivered ;  the  God  of 
Hezekiah  is  our  God,  and  He  hath  said,  "I 
will  deliver  thee  in  six  troubles,  and  in  seven 
I  will  not  forsake  thee."  We  believe  His  word, 
we  rely  on  His  faithfulness,  we  plead  at  His 
throne :  and  so  sure  as  He  can  deliver  He 
AviLL.  He  hath  often  done  so  in  times  past. 
He  doth  deliver  all  His  praying  people  now, 
and  in  Him  we  trust  that  He  will  deliver  us. 
Not  on  account  of  anything  in  us,  or  of  any- 
thing done  by  us,  but  because  He  hath  said, 
"  I  will  be  with  him  in  trouble,  I  will  deliver 
him  and  honor  him ;  I  will  set  him  on  high, 
because  he  hath  known  my  name."  He  is 
faithful,  His  word  cannot  fail,  nor  should  our 
faith  be  shaken.  Deliverance  is  certain,  for 
God  hath  spoken,  and  God  is  true. 


The  same  His  power,  His  love  the  same, 
Unmoved  the  promise  shines ; 

Eternal  truth  surrounds  His  name, 
And  guards  the  precious  lines. 
34 


JANUARY    31. 


We  Joy  in  God.     Rom.  v.  1 1. 

This  is  every  believer's  privilege  ;  God  is 
reconciled  to  him  in  the  person  and  through 
the  work  of  Jesus :  all  charges  against  him  are 
blotted  out;  all  his  sins  are  freely  and  fully 
forgiven;  he  is  justified  from  all  things;  and 
stands  before  God  in  Christ,  accepted,  be- 
loved, and  blessed.  To  him  God  is  love  ; 
with  him  God  is  at  peace  ;  and  he  is  now  a  son 
of  God.  If  this  is  believed  on  the  testimony 
of  God,  and  realized  in  the  soul  as  the  effect  of 
faith ;  then  God  becomes  our  exceeding  joy, 
and  we  rejoice  with  joy  unspeakable  and  full  of 
glory.  If  we  joy  in  frames,  they  change  ;  if  we 
joy  in  friends,  they  die  ;  if  we  joy  in  possessions, 
they  are  vanity  ;  but  if  we  joy  in  God,  though 
the  exercise  of  joy  may  be  interrupted,  yet  the 
object  remains  eternally  the  same,  and  we  shall 
joy  for  evermore.  Beloved,  look  at  Jehovah  in 
Jesus  ;  there  you  see  Him  as  the  Father  of 
mercies  and  God  of  all  comfort ;  joy  and 
rejoice  in  him  as  your  God,  your  portion,  your 
everlasting  all.  Throughout  this  day,  joy  in 
God  as  your  Father,  your  Friend,  and  your 
Saviour. 


Joy  to  find,  in  every  station, 

Something  still  to  do  or  bear : 
Think,  what  spirit  dwells  within  thee  ; 

Think,  what  Father's  smiles  are  thine  ; 
Think,  what  Jesus  did  to  win  thee  ; — 

Child  of  heaven  !  canst  thou  repine  ? 

85 


FEBRUARY    1. 


0  Immanuel.     Matt.  i.  23. 

Consider  Jesus  through  this  day  as  God  with 
thee  ;  God  in  thy  nature  ;  God  become  man 
for  thy  salvation  and  consolation.  None  but 
G-od  was  able  to  save ;  thy  Jesus  is  God :  it 
was  necessary  that  the  Saviour  should  be  man, 
and  Jesus  is  man.  He  has  the  nature  of  His 
Father,  here  is  His  ability ;  He  has  thy  nature 
also,  here  is  His  suitability.  Jesus  is  God 
with  thee,  to  hear  thy  prayers,  check  thy  fears, 
redress  thy  grievances,  sympathize  with  thee  in 
thy  sorrows,  and  be  thy  evcry-day  friend.  God 
is  with  us,  observing  our  conduct,  directing  our 
ways,  reproving  our  follies,  providing  our  sup- 
plies, aixd  making  all  things  work  together  for 
our  good.  Always  remember,  Jesus  is  with 
me ;  every  sin  is  committed  under  His  eye, 
against  His  love,  and  goes  to  His  heart ;  think, 
when  tempted  to  sin,  that  you  hear  Immanuel, 
the  suffering,  bleeding,  dying,  reigning  Saviour, 
say,  "  Oh,  do  not  that  abominable  thing  which  I 
hate."  Walk  before  Him  in  love,  peace,  holi- 
ness, and  zeal,  for  his  glory  and  praise.  He  is 
God  for  thee,  as  well  as  with  thee.  Look  to 
His  wisdom,  power,  and  love,  for  safety  and 
supply ;  and  with  filial  confidence  trust  his 
word. 

Sweeter  sounds  than  music  knows 
Charm  me  in  Lnmanuel's  name ; 
All  her  hopes  my  spirit  owes 
To  His  birth,  His  cross,  His  shame, 
36 


FEBRUARY    2. 


The  spirit  of  supplication.     Zech.  xii.  10. 

All  spiritual  prayer  is  produced  by  the  Holy 
Spirit ;  He  convinces  us  of  need,  discovers  to  us 
the  fulness  of  Jesus,  leads  us  to  the  throne  of 
grace,  and  helps  our  infirmities  there.  The 
very  desire  to  pray  is  from  Him,  and  the  liberty 
we  enjoy  in  prayer  is  His  gift.  But  how  dread- 
ful a  thing  is  sin,  and  how  condescending  is 
the  Holy  Spirit  I  He  sympathizes  with  us, 
and  maketh  intercession  for  us,  with  unutterable 
expressions  of  distress ;  with  groanings  which 
cannot  be  uttered.  Sin  has  rendered  us  so 
vile,  that  no  sacrifice  but  ^that  of  the  Son  of 
God  Himself,  could  atone  for  us  ;  and  so  weak, 
that  none  but  the  Holy  Spirit  can  enable  us  to 
pray  with  fervor,  faith,  and  success.  See,  be- 
loved, how  deep  are  your  obligations,  and  how 
great  your  dependence  upon  this  blessed  Spirit 
of  grace  and  supplication.  Be  careful  lest  you 
grieve  Him  by  your  lightness,  worldliness,  or 
lukewarmness ;  but  sow  unto  the  Spirit  and  ye 
shall  reap  life  everlasting.  He  will  testify  to 
you  of  Jesus,  and  bless  you  with  liberty  and 
peace. 

I  want  a  heart  to  pray, 

To  pray  and  never  cease  ; 
Never  to  murmui-  at  thy  stay, 

Or  wish  my  sufferings  less. 

I  want  a  godly  fear, 

A  quick  discerning  eye, 
That  looks  to  thee  when  sin  is  near, 

And  sees  the  tempter  fly. 

37 


FEBRUARY    3. 


Cleave  tiiito  the  Lord.     Acts  xi.  23. 

Every  believer  is  united  to  Christ,  and  is  one 
with  Him.  Jesus  is  the  vine,  he  is  a  branch  ; 
Jesus  is  the  husband,  he  is  the  bride.  Satan's 
design  is  to  lead  him  from  the  Lord ;  he  knows 
well  he  can  do  little  or  nothing,  while  the 
Christian  cleaves  to  Jesus.  Oh,  then,  cleave 
to  Him  by  faith,  in  love,  with  perseverance  ! 
Cleave  to  His  truth,  to  His  people,  to  His 
ordinances,  to  His  word,  and  to  His  throne. 
Think  of  Jesus  as  the  affectionate  child  thinks 
of  his  beloved  father,  as  the  tender  bride  thinks 
of  her  devoted  bridegroom,  as  the  way-worn 
traveller  thinks  of  his  cheerful  home.  Let 
Jesus  be  uppermost  in  thy  thoughts,  let  His 
love  rule  thy  heart,  and  let  nothing  steal  away 
thy  affection  from  Him.  Live  upon  His  ful- 
ness, live  according  to  His  word,  live  in  the 
element  of  His  love  ;  no  living  safely,  no  living 
happily,  but  as  you  cleave  unto  the  Lord. 
Never  let  Satan  find  thee  at  a  distance  from 
Jesus,  or  he  will  assuredly  be  too  much  for 
thee.  He  is  ever  on  the  watch  to  find  thee 
wandering,  that  he  may  worry,  deceive,  and 
distress  thee.  Therefore  cleave  unto  the  Lord, 
with  full  purpose  of  heart.  Cleave  to  Him  as 
the  ivy  to  the  oak,  or  the  child  to  the  mother's 
breast. 

Saviour,  let  me  cleave  to  thee ; 
Love  the  bond  of  union  be  ; 
And,  lest  I  should  e'er  depart, 
Keep  thy  dwelling  in  my  heart. 
38 


FEBRUARY    4. 


Precious  faith.     2  Peter  i.  1. 

Faith  is  the  gift  of  God.  It  is  the  fruit  of 
everlasting  love,  the  effect  of  grace ;  we  believe 
through  grace.  The  faith  which  is  the  evidence 
of  salvation,  includes  giving  credit  to  the  gospel 
report,  of  a  free  and  full  salvation  for  poor  un- 
worthy sinners ;  an  application  to  Jesus  on  the 
throne  of  grace,  founded  on  that  report ;  and  a 
trusting  on  the  word,  work,  and  death  of  Jesus, 
for  life  and  salvation.  This  always  produces 
love  to  Jesus,  and  leads  the  soul  to  obey  Him 
out  of  gratitude.  It  is  precious ;  being  scarce, 
few  thus  believe  ;  being  valuable,  without  it  we 
cannot  please  God,  cannot  be  justified,  cannot 
rejoice  in  hope,  or  enjoy  gospel  blessings ;  but  he 
that  believeth  is  entitled  to  every  precious  prom- 
ise, to  all  the  fulness  of  Christ,  to  enjoy  God  in 
every  new  covenant  relation,  and  shall  never  see 
death.  He  is  passed  from  death  to  life,  and 
shall  never  come  into  condemnation.  Gracious 
God!  give  unto  thy  people,  and  unto  me  espe- 
cially, much  precious  faith,  that  believing  in 
Jesus,  I  may  rejoice  with  joy  unspeakable  and 
full  of  glory.  Oh,  to  believe  this  day  without 
wavering  !  Oh,  to  be  strong  in  faith,  giving  glory 
to  God ! 


Oh,  for  a  strong,  a  lasting  faitb, 
To  credit  what  th'  Almighty  saith  ! 
To  embrace  the  message  of  His  Son, 
And  call  the  joys  of  heav'n  our  own. 


39 


FEBRUARY   5. 


Precious  blood.     1  Pet.  i.  10. 

The  blood  of  Jesus  is  the  price  of  our  redemp- 
tion, the  object  of  our  faith,  the  ground  of  our 
peace,  the  subject  of  our  meditation,  and  our 
constant  plea  at  the  throne  of  grace.  It  satis- 
fied divine  justice,  and  speaks  peace  to  the 
humbled  sinner's  heart.  It  overcomes  Satan, 
and  cleanseth  from  all  sin.  It  purges  the  con- 
science from  dead  works,  and  leads  us  to  joy 
in  God.  We  build  on  it  as  our  foundation, 
flee  to  it  as  our  refuge,  look  to  it  as  the  cure  for 
sin,  and  sing  of  it  as  the  joy  of  our  heart.  It 
has  made  a  perfect,  a  satisfactory,  an  infinite 
atonement ;  and  no  sinner  can  perish  who 
relies  upon  it,  washes  in  it,  and  pleads  it  before 
God.  It  is  indeed  precious  blood !  It  is  in- 
valuable !  Whenever  you  feel  guilt  on  your 
conscience,  fears  rising  in  your  mind,  or  a 
gloom  come  over  your  spirit ;  look  to,  meditate 
upon,  make  use  of  the  precious  blood  of  Jesus. 
It  made  peace,  it  gives  peace,  and  it  secures 
peace.  It  cleanses,  heals,  and  sanctifies ;  and 
Ave  could  not  live  happy  one  day  without  it. 
The  blood  of  Jesus  Christ  cleanseth  us  from 
all  sin.  To  this  alone  we  must  look  as  the 
foundation  of  our  hope,  and  the  ground  of  our 
peace. 

Dear  dying  Lamb,  thy  precious  blood 

Shall  never  lose  its  power ; 
Till  all  the  ransom'd  church  of  God 
Be  saved  to  sin  no  more. 
40 


FEBRUARY   6. 


He  is  precious.     1  Pet.  ii.  7. 

Yes — Jesus  is  precious  to  every  believer : 
however  Ciiristians  may  differ  upon  some 
points,  they  all  agree  in  this,  Jesus  is  precious. 
They  cannot  always  feel  towards  Him  as  they 
wish,  but  they  have  always  one  and  the  same 
opinion  of  Him.  He  is  precious  in  His  per- 
son, word,  work,  blood,  righteousness,  and  in- 
tercession :  as  prophet,  priest,  and  king  ;  in 
every  name  He  wears,  every  character  He 
bears,  every  relation  He  fills,  and  every  office 
He  sustains ;  so  precious  that  none  can  be 
compared  with  Him.  His  people  love  Him, 
but  none  of  them  think  they  love  Him  enough  ; 
they  adore  Him,  but  mourn  over  their  want  of 
fervor  when  addressing  Him  ;  they  prefer  Him 
above  all  things,  and  consider  Him  altogether 
lovely.  Do  you  find  Christ  precious  this  morn- 
ing ?  If  He  was  to  be  sold,  what  would  you 
give  for  him  ?  If  you  could  be  gratified,  how 
would  you  feel  towards  him  ?  He  is  precious 
to  poor  sensible  sinners  ;  to  strong  believers ;  to 
holy  angels  ;  and  to  God  our  heavenly  Father. 
Is  He  so  to  you  ?  Live  near  to  Him,  be  inti- 
mate with  Him,  and  you  will  feel  Him  precious. 
The  more  you  know  of  Him,  the  more  you 
will  prize  him. 

Hail,  thou  ever  blessed  Jesus, 

Only  thee  I  ■wish  to  sing ; 
To  my  soul  thy  name  is  precious, 

Thou  my  riophet.  Priest,  and  King. 

41 


FEBRUARY    7. 


My  times  are  in  thy  hand.     Ps.  xxxi.  15. 

Every  event  is  under  divine  control ;  nothing 
is  left  to  chance.  The  hand  of  God  is  in  all 
that  occurs  ;  directing,  overruling,  or  sanctify- 
ing to  our  good.  He  appointed  all  that  con- 
cerns us,  and  appointed  all  in  infinite  wisdom 
and  love ;  therefore  we  should  not  judge  rashly, 
or  conclude  hastily.  We  know  not  what  may 
occur  to-day,  but  we  know  that  the  purpose  of 
God  cannot  be  frustrated,  nor  can  His  promise 
fail.  He  worketh  all  things  after  the  counsel 
of  His  own  will.  He  says,  "  My  purpose  shall 
stand,  and  I  will  do  all  my  pleasure."  But 
this  is  our  comfort,  that  He  taketh  pleasure  in 
His  people,  and  in  the  prosperity  of  His  ser- 
vants. Let  us  consider,  then,  everything  passes 
under  our  Father's  eye ;  is  overruled  by  our 
Saviour's  power ;  is  directed  by  the  Holy  Spirit 
to  do  us  good.  It  sliali  not  be  as  our  enemies 
wish,  or  as  our  hearts  fear ;  but  as  our  God  and 
Father  pleases  and  has  ordained.  Be  not  there- 
fore anxious,  troubled,  or  cast  down;  the  Lord 
God  omnipotent  reigneth,  and  He  is  God.  He 
shall  preserve  thee  from  evil.  He  shall  preserve 
thy  soul. 


I  know  not  wliat  may  soon  betide, 
But  Jesus  knows,  and  He'll  provide ; 
My  life  is  by  His  counsel  plann'd, 
And  all  my  times  are  in  His  hand : 
I'll  therefore  trust,  nor  yield  to  fear, 
But  cast  on  Jesus  all  my  care. 
42 


FEBRUARY   8. 


That  I  may  win  Christ.     Phil.  iii.  8. 

The  aim  of  men  in  general  is  to  make  a  for- 
tune, enjoy  the  world,  and  live  respectably : 
the  aim  of  the  believer  is  to  win  Christ.  Jesus 
possesses  all  He  desires,  and  to  possess  Christ 
would  satisfy  every  wish.  We  have  now  a 
title  to  Him,  we  receive  much  from  Him,  and 
we  often  enjoy  His  love;  but  we  want  to  be 
present  with  Him,  and  to  have  full  possession 
of  Him  as  our  everlasting  all.  He  is  set  before 
us  as  our  mark.  He  is  held  out  as  the  prize, 
and  is  promised  as  the  everlasting  portion  of 
every  overcomer.  Where,  is  the  heart  this 
morning  ?  Which  way  do  the  desires  tend  ? 
What  is  to  be  the  object  of  pursuit  to-day  ? 
If  Jesus  is  the  principal  object,  failing  in  our 
pursuit  after  other  things,  losses,  or  crosses, 
will  not  much  affect  us ;  but  our  conduct  will 
say,  "  I  aim  to  win  Christ ;  if  He  is  mine,  all  is 
well,  other  things  are  but  trifles  compared  with 
Him."  Keeping  Jesus  in  view  thus,  will  pre- 
vent murmuring,  cure  our  impatience,  and  keep 
our  hearts  in  comparative  peace.  O  may  our 
every  action  cry  in  the  ears  of  every  observer, 
"  That  I  may  win  Christ."  He  who  has 
Christ,  has  an  infinite  portion ;  unsearchable 
wealth. 

Not  softest  strains  can  charm  mine  ears, 

Like  His  beloved  name ; 
Nor  aught  beneath  the  skies  inspire 

My  heart  with  equal  flame. 

43 


FEBRUARY   9. 


Be  watchful.     Rev.  iii.  2. 

Satan  is  watching  to  ensnare  us,  the  world  is 
Avatching  to  exult  over  us,  and  God  is  watch- 
ing to  protect  us.  Jesus  our  best  friend  says 
to  us,  "  Be  Watchful."  Watch  against  the 
spirit  of  the  worlJ,  against  thy  easily  besetting 
sins,  against  seasons  of  temptation,  and  against 
Satan  the  sworn  enemy  of  thy  soul.  Watch 
for  opportunities  to  do  good,  for  answers  to 
prayer,  for  the  appearance  of  God  as  a  God  of 
providence.  Unite  prayer  to  God,  dependence 
on  His  holy  word,  and  watchfulness  together; 
pray  to  be  kept  from  sin,  in  temptation,  un- 
spotted from  the  world ;  trust  in  God  to 
answer,  but  do  not  leave  the  throne ;  and  then 
watch  as  though  all  depended'  upon  thy  dili- 
gence and  efforts.  Blessed  is  He  that  watcheth 
and  keepeth  his  garments.  "  Watch  ye  there- 
fore and  pray  always."  But  trust  not  thy 
watchfulness,  but  while  watching  trust  in  God. 
He  that  keepeth  thee  will  not  slumber :  He  is 
with  thee  when  on  guard,  as  well  as  when  thou 
art  feasting  on  His  word  and  rejoicing  at  His 
table.  He  withdraweth  not  his  eyes  from  the 
righteous.  "  The  eyes  of  the  Lord  are  upon  the 
righteous,  and  His  ears  are  open  to  their  cry." 
Watch  ye,  therefore,  and  pray  always. 

Oh !  watch,  and  fight,  and  pray ; — 

The  battle  ne'er  give  o'er ; 
Renew  it  boldly  every  day, 
And  help  divine  implore. 
44 


FEBRUARY    10. 


God  is  for  me.     Psalm  Ivi.  9. 

Beloved,  the  greatest  mercy  a  sinner  can  enjoy 
is  to  have  God  on  his  side,  engaged  in  his 
quarrel,  and  employed  in  his  most  important 
concerns ;  this  mercy  is  yonrs.  God  is  for 
you :  He  chose  you  in  Christ  before  the  world 
began :  He  formed  you  to  show  forth  His 
praise :  He  preserved  you  in  Christ  until  He 
called  you  by  grace :  He  quickened  you  by  His 
Spirit,  and  led  you  to  Jesus :  He  lias  given 
you  His  Son,  and  promised  every  additional 
good.  He  has  said  to  you,  "  Thou  art  mine." 
You  have  said,  "I  am  thine."  He  is  now  your 
refuge  and  strength  ;  He  is  tenderly  concerned 
for  your  welfare,  devotedly  attached  to  your 
cause,  and  observes  every  step  you  take.  He 
may  try  your  faith,  but  will  certainly  supply 
your  wants.  He  may  exercise  your  patience, 
but  will  never  turn  a  deaf  ear  to  your  cries, 
except  you  indulge  iniquity  in  your  heart.  No 
parent  ever  felt  so  deeply  interested  in  the  wel- 
fare of  a  beloved  child,  as  thy  God  does  in  thine. 
He  says,  "  Fear  thou  not ;  for  I  am  with  thee  ; 
be  not  dismayed,  for  I  am  thy  God :  I  will 
strengthen  thee ;  yea,  I  will  help  thee ;  yea,  I 
will  uphold  thee  with  the  right  hand  of  my 
righteousness." 

God  i3  our  refuge  and  defence, 

In  trouble  onr  nnf:iiHng  aid  ; 
Secure  in  his  omnipotence, 

What  foe  can  make  our  souls  afraid  ? 

45 


FEBRUARY    11. 


I  will  spare  them.     Mai.  iii.  lY. 

Prixious  assurance  !  But  whom  will  the  Lord 
spare  ?  All  His  children, — especially  those  wlio 
speak  of  His  goodness,  witness  to  His  faithful- 
ness, think  upon  His  name,  and  honor  Him 
before  an  evil  generation:  He  says,  "  They  shall 
be  mine,  in  that  day  when  I  make  up  my  jew- 
els, and  I  will  spare  them  as  a  father  sparctli 
his  obedient  son."  If  we  are  aiming  at  the 
Lord's  glory,  and  walking  by  the  Lord's  word, 
we  have  nothing  to  fear  from  any  of  His  dispen- 
sations. Ho  will  shield  us  from  danger,  sanctify 
our  troubles,  and  secure  our  best  interest.?.  If 
we  are  living  to  His  praise,  we  may  safely  leave 
our  wants  and  our  comforts  in  His  hands  ;  He 
will  supply  the  one  and  preserve  the  other.  He 
says,  "  Fear  thou  not,  for  I  am  with  thee." 
"  Bring  every  trouble  to  my  throne,  every  want 
to  my  fulness :  I  am  el-siiaddat,  God  all-suf- 
ficient :  cnougli  in  the  absence  of  every  one 
and  everything.  I  am  your  God  ;  I  may  pun- 
ish the  nations,  but  I  Vv'ill  spare  you.  Believe 
this  and  be  happy.  Rejoice  in  this  and  you  glo- 
rify me.  You  are  no  more  a  servant,  but  a 
son ;  and  if  son,  then  an  iiEfR  of  God  through 
Christ.  Though  I  punish  the  world,  I  will 
spare  you." 

Jesus,  my  Saviour  and  my  Loid ! 

'Tis  good  to  trust  thy  name : 
Thy  power,  thy  faithfuhies^:,  and  love. 
Will  ever  be  the  same. 
46 


FEBRUARY    12. 


Hope  thou  in  God.     Tsalm  xlii.  11. 

However  gloomy  the  day,  however  strange  the 
trials,  however  distressing  the  visitation,  hope 
thou  in  God.  He  is  with  you,  Ho  is  your 
God,  He  has  promised  to  befriend  you.  He  is 
the  faithful  God.  He  will  turn  darkness  into 
light,  make  crooked  things  straight,  and  make 
all  grace  abound  towards  you,  so  that  you, 
having  all  sufficiency,  may  abound  to  every 
good  work.  The  changes  that  affect  you,  can- 
not affect  him.  You  cannot  rely  too  simply 
upon  Him,  or  expect  too  much  from  Him.  If 
all  within  and  without  seem  to  conspire  to  dis- 
tress you,  still  say,  "  I  will  hope  in  God."  Ex- 
pect Him  to  be  to  you  all  a  gracious  and 
powerful  God  can  be  ;  expect  Him  to  do  all  a 
loving  Father  and  infinite  God  can  do.  Hope 
for  light  in  darkness,  for  relief  in  distress,  for 
strength  in  weakness,  for  joy  in  sorrow,  for 
deliverance  when  sinking  beneath  the  wave,  and 
for  life  in  death.  Hope  for  all  you  need,  and 
for  all  God  has  promised.  Hope  thou  in  God, 
and  in  God  alone.  Hope  because  God  has 
spoken,  because  he  is  true  and  faithful,  and  you 
cannot  hope  in  vain.  The  foundation  of  your 
hope  is  laid  in  the  blood  of  Jesus,  and  the  oath 
of  God. 

Ye  fearful  saints  !  fresh  courage  take ; 

The  clouds  ye  so  much  dread 
Are  big  with  mercy,  and  shall  break 

In  blessings  on  your  head. 

47 


FEBRUARY    13. 


Search  me,  0  God.     Ps.  cxxxix.  23. 

NoNK  can  search  the  heart  but  God ;  none  are 
desirous  or  willing  fur  the  heart  to  be  searched 
but  real  Christians.  A  believer  desires  to  know 
the  worst.  He  dreads  deception.  Grace  has 
made  him  honest,  and  he  prays,  "  Lord,  search 
me."  If  a  man  was  to  search,  he  would  expose, 
irritate,  and  injure  us  ;  but  if  God  search.  He 
will  humble,  strengthen,  and  heal  us.  The 
man  who  sees  himself  in  the  light  of  truth,  and 
knows  himself  as  the  effect  of  divine  searching, 
cannot  trust  himself  for  one  moment;  he  flies 
from  self  to  Jesus ;  from  law  to  grace ;  he 
loathes  himself ;  and  while  he  coniidently  trusts 
in  Jesus,  and  rejoices  in  hope,  he  walks  humbly 
with  his  God.  He  cannot  boast,  he  dares  not 
presume ;  but  walks  in  holiness,  and  ascribes 
all  to  free  grace.  Beloved,  take  the  heart  to 
Jesus  to  be  searched.  Ho  says,  "  I  am  He  that 
searcheth  the  hearts  and  trietli  the  reins."  If 
He  search  you.  He  will  save  you  from  deception, 
self- righteousness,  and  every  false  way.  Be 
this  your  daily  prayer,  "  Search  me,  O  God, 
and  lead  me  in  the  way  everlasting.  Examine 
me,  O  Lord,  and  prove  me:  try  my  reins  and 
my  heart."  Let  a  man  examine  himself.  You 
need  searching. 

Lord,  search  my  lieart,  and  try  my  •ways, 

And  make  my  soul  sincere ; 
Then  shall  I  stand  before  thy  face, 

And  find  acceptance  there. 

48 


FEBRUARY    14. 


The  Lord  delighteth  in  thee.     Isa.  Ixii.  4. 

And  is  it  possible,  that  such  poor,  depraved, 
unworthy  creatures,  can  bo  the  objects  of  Je- 
hovah's delight?  Yes  —  the  infinite  love  of 
God  has  been  fixed  upon  us  from  eternity  : 
because  He  loved  us,  He  sent  His  only  begot- 
ten Son  to  die  for  us ;  He  sent  His  Holy 
Spirit  into  our  hearts ;  and  gave  us  a  good  hope 
through  grace.  Hear  the  Apostle  :  "  But  God, 
who  is  rich  in  mercy,  for  His  great  love 
wherewith  He  loved  us,  even  when  we  were 
DEAD  JN  SINS,  hath  quickened  us  together  with 
Christ :  by  whose  grace  ye  are  saved."  Je- 
hovah views  us  in  Jesus,  and  loves  us  with  an 
infinite  love.  Yea,  He  has  loved  us  as  He  has 
loved  Him.  Every  believer,  though  his  faith 
may  be  weak,  his  fears  many,  his  corruptions 
strong,  his  troubles  great,  and  his  temptations 
sore,  is  the  object  of  Jehovah's  delight.  Let  us 
therefore  endeavor  to  pass  through  this  day,  yea, 
and  every  day,  believing  and  realizing,  "  I  am 
Jehovah's  delight;  the  object  of  His  highest  love; 
the  subject  of  His  sweetest  thoughts  ;  and  His 
portion  for  evermore."  O  incomparable  privi- 
lege !  Source  of  comfort,  holiness,  and  love  I 
Thou  hast  more  cause  for  gratitude  than  an 
angel. 

God,  the  eternal,  mighty  God, 

To  dearer  names  descends ; 
Calls  you  his  treasure  and  his  joy, 

His  children  and  his  friends. 

49 


FEBRUARY    15. 


Grieve  not  the  Holy  Spirit.     Ephes.  iv.  30. 

We  are  absolutely  dependent  upon  the  Holy 
Spirit  for  life,  light,  teaching,  and  sanctifica- 
tion.  Without  His  presence,  power,  and 
operations,  we  are  dead,  dark,  ignorant  and 
carnal.  We  should  therefore  be  very  careful 
not  to  grieve,  or  dishonor  Him.  We  do  so 
when  we  neglect,  slight,  or  make  any  improper 
use  of  God's  holy  word ;  when  we  indulge  in 
hard  thoughts  of  God,  or  low  thoughts  of  the 
Lord  Jesus ;  when  we  mind  the  things  of  the 
flesh  in  preference  to  spiritual  things ;  when  we 
trifle  with,  or  indulge  in  any  sin  of  omission  or 
commission;  when  we  slight  His  intimations, 
abuse  His  gifts,  and  listen  to  Satan,  the  world, 
or  the  flesh,  in  preference  to  Him.  When  He 
is  grieved  He  suspends  His  influence,  and  we 
find  no  assistance  in  duty ;  we  get  cold,  carnal, 
and  indifferent ;  we  taste  no  sweetness  in  spirit- 
ual things,  and  the  ministry  of  the  word  be- 
comes dry  and  lifeless ;  the  Bible  is  a  sealed 
book  ;  there  is  no  power  in  prayer ;  no  gratitude 
for  mercies  received ;  and  religion  becomes  a 
task.  Oh  grieve  not  the  Holy  Spirit  of  God,  by 
whom  ye  are  sealed  unto  the  day  of  redemption  ; 
but  sow  unto  the  Spirit,  and  ye  shall  reap  life 
everlasting. 

Return,  0  holy  Dove !  return, 

Sweet  messenger  of  rest ! 
I  hate  the  sins  that  made  thee  mourn, 

And  di'ove  thee  from  ray  breast. 
50 


FEBRUARY    16. 


I  will  be  to  than  a  Goi.     Heb.  yiii.  10. 

That  is,  to  all  His  people.     The  object  of  their 
adoration  and  trust,  the  subject  of  their  medi- 
tation,  and   the  source  of  all   their    happiness. 
To  be  our  God,  is  more  than  being  our  friend, 
helper,  or   benefactor;    (creatures  may   be   so;) 
He  engages  to  do  us  good  according  to  His  all 
sufficiency,  to  bestow  upon  us  blessings  which 
none  else  can.     He  will  pardon  us,  and  pardon 
like  a  God — He   will  sanctify  us,  and  sanctify 
us  lilce   a   God — He  will  comfort  us,  and  com- 
fort    us   like    a    God— He    will  glorify  us,   and 
glorify  us  like   a   God.     If  He  is  our  God,  He 
is  our  all,  and  all  He  has  is  ours.     He  is  our 
inheritance,    and  a    glorious  inheritance   He   is. 
Consider,  when  in  danger,  in  darkness,  in  dis- 
tress, in  temptation,  in  duty,  or  in  pain  ;  God 
will  be  to  you  a  God,  delivering,  enlightening, 
comforting,  strengthening,  and  sanctifying  you. 
Make  a  God  of  Him,  look  to  Him  for  all  He 
has  promised,  which  is  all  you  want ;  adore  his 
divine  perfections,  and  rejoice  that  they  are  all 
engaged  to  make  you  blessed.     Live  to  His  glo- 
ry, walk  by  His  word,  and  He  will  glorify  Him- 
self in    your    present    and    everlasting    welfare. 
He  rejoiceth  to  do  good  unto  His  people,  He  de- 
lights to  bless  them. 

Here  would  I  dwell,  aud  ne'er  remove  ; 
Here  I  am  safe  from  all  alarms  ; 
My  rest  is  "  everlasting  love," 
My  refuge,  "  everlasting  arms." 

51 


FEBRUARY    IT. 


Now  is  the  day  of  salvation.     2  Cor.  vi.  2. 

What  an  unspeakable  mercy  to  live  at  such  a 
period.  We  are  poor,  lost,  ruined  sinners ; 
but  this  is  the  day  when  salvation  is  freely  be- 
stowed, without  money  and  without  price.  The 
Lord  saves  from  the  love,  power,  and  conse- 
quences of  sin  ;  gives  His  Holy  Spirit,  writes 
His  law  in  the  heart,  and  directs  our  feet  into 
the  way  of  peace.  He  gives  us  Jesus,  who  is 
the  Saviour  ;  gives  us  grace,  which  conquers 
sin ;  and  gives  us  heaven,  to  enjoy  when  the 
journey  of  life  is  ended.  This  is  the  day  in 
which  He  works  deliverance  for  His  people  ; 
He  employs  His  power,  His  wisdom.  His 
word.  His  providence,  and  His  angels,  for  our 
deliverance.  What  then  shall  we  fear  ?  Of 
whom  shall  we  be  afraid  ?  Let  us  go  to  His 
throne,  remembering  that  it  is  the  day  of  sal- 
vation ;  let  us  plead  for  deliverance  from  all 
that  mars  our  peace,  prevents  our  enjoyment, 
or  hinders  us  in  our  christian  course.  Let 
there  be  no  despondency,  for  this  is  a  day  of 
good  tidings  ;  it  is,  believe,  and  be  saved  ; 
pray,  and  be  delivered  ;  v/ait  on  the  Lord,  and 
He  will  strengthen  your  heart.  "  By  grace  are 
ye  saved,  through  faith ;  and  that  not  of  your- 
selves, it  is  the  gift  of  God." 


Salvation !  0  the  joyful  sound, 
'Tis  pleasure  to  our  cars ; 

A  sovereicrn  balm  for  every  wound, 
A  cordial  for  our  fears. 
52 


FEBRUARY    18. 


Be  ye  also  patient.    James  v.  8. 

Our  God  is  a  God  of  patience.  The  Lord 
Jesus  is  the  great  example  of  patience.  The 
Holy  Spirit  is  the  agent  producing  patience. 
Trials,  troubles,  and  disappointments,  are  the 
means  which  exercise  and  strengthen  it.  The 
patience  required,  is  a  disposition  to  bear  all 
that  God  has  appointed  for  us,  without  com- 
plaining ;  yea,  with  resignation  and  hope :  to 
wait  God's  time  for  the  mercies  we  need,  or 
for  answers  to  the  prayers  we  put  up.  Patience 
is  the  daughter  of  faith  ;  and  it  is  only  as  we 
believe  that  God  has  appointed,  overrules,  or 
commands,  for  our  good  and  His  glory,  that  we 
can  be  patient.  Patience  produces  self-posses- 
sion, shuts  the  mouth  from  complaining,  keeps 
back  the  heart  from  seeking  revenge,  and  is  a 
principal  point  in  self-government.  Are  you 
impatient  ?  Then  confess  it,  and  mourn  over  it 
before  God ;  it  will  make  you  miserable,  and 
lead  you  to  dishonor  God,  Watch  against  it ; 
the  coming  of  the  Lord  draweth  nigh.  Look  at 
the  prophets,  apostles,  martyrs,  at  Jesus  ;  and  be 
ye  also  patient :  "In  your  patience  possess  ye 
your  souls." 


Thus  trusting  in  thy  love,  I  tread 

The  path  of  duty  on  : 
What  though  some  cherished  joys  are  fled, 

Some  flattering  dreams  are  gone  ? 
Yet  pui'er,  brighter  joys  remain  ; 
Why  should  my  spirit  then  complain  ? 

53 


FEBRUARY    19. 


He  caretli  for  you.     1  Peter  v.  1. 

The   Lord  knows  all  his  people,  their  persons, 
wants,   and   trials ;    He   thinketh  upon  them  to 
benefit,   deliver,   and    supply   them.      He    keeps 
His   eye   upon  them   in  all  places,  at  all  times, 
and  under  all  circumstances.     He  has  them  in 
His   hand,   and   will    not    loose    His    hold.     He 
looks   upon    them    always    as    His    own ;    the 
objects  of  His  love,  the   purchase  of  His  Son's 
blood,  the  temples  of   the   Holy  Spirit.     They 
are  precious  in  His  sight.     He   knows  they  are 
weak,   fearful,    and    have    many   enemies.       He 
teaches  them  to  cast  themselves  and  all    their 
cares  into  His  hands  :  and   He   has   given  them 
His  word,  that  he  will  care  for  them.     It  is  a 
Father's  care  which  He  exercises.     It  is  wise, 
holy,  tender,  and  constant ;  therefore  all  will   be 
well,  only  trust.     Believe   that  He  cares  for  you 
this  day  ;  carry  all  your  concerns  to  Him  in  the 
faith   of  this  ;     leave   all   with   Him,   persuaded 
that  He  will  manage  all  by  His  infinite  wisdom, 
and  bring  all  to  a  good  issue  by  His  omnipotent 
power.     Cast  all  your  cares   upon  Him  as  fast 
as  they  come  in  ;  be  anxious  for  nothing.     "  Cast 
thy  burden  upon  the  Lord,  and  He  shall  sustain 
thee ;  He  will  never  suffer  the  righteous  to  be 
moved." 


Cast,  my  cliild,  on  me  thy  care, 
'Tis  enougli  that  I  am  nigh  ; 
I  will  all  thy  burdens  bear, 
I  will  all  thy  wants  supply. 
54 


FEBRUARY   20. 


Is  the  Lord's  hand  waxed  short  ?     Num.  xi.  23. 

No — what  He  hath  done,  He  can  do ;  and  all 
He  hath  promised,  or  His  people  need.  He 
will  do.  He  has  all  power.  He  knows  no 
difficulty.  Why  then  are  we  cast  down  ?  Be- 
cause we  do  not  believe  His  word,  depend 
simply  on  His  veracity,  and  expect  all  we 
need  from  His  hand.  He  was  displeased  with 
Moses  when  he  questioned  His  power,  and  He 
is  displeased  with  us  when  we  doubt  His  love, 
distrust  His  providence,  or  ask,  "  How  can  this 
thing  be  ?"  Whatever  may  be  your  difficulty, 
trial,  or  want,  plead  with  the  Lord  and  con- 
fidently expect  deliverance ;  and  if  any  tempta- 
tion is  presented  to  weaken  your  faith,  rouse 
your  fears,  or  disturb  your  tranquillity,  meet  it 
with  this  question,  "  Is  the  Lord's  hand  waxed 
short  ?"  Beloved,  look  not  to  the  hand  of  man, 
but  look  simply  to  the  hand  of  God  ;  man  may 
disappoint  you,  God  will  not.  He  is  faithful 
that  promised.  He  is  a  God  at  hand.  He  will 
be  near  you  throughout  this  day  ;  His  hand  is 
able  and  ready  to  help  you ;  therefore  trust  and 
be  not  afraid. 


In  heaven,  and  earth,  and  air,  and  seas, 
He  executes  His  firm  decrees ; 
And  by  His  saints  it  stands  confesa'd 
That  what  He  does  is  ever  best; 
Tlien  on  His  powerful  arm  rely. 
And  He  will  bring  salvation  nigh- 

<5 


FEBRUARY    21. 


The  Lord  tricth  the  righteous.     Ps.  xi.  6. 

Where  the  Lord  gives  grace,  He  always  tries 
it ;  therefore  His  own  people  must  expect  to 
pass  through  tlie  fire.  Ho  will  try  our  faith, 
of  what  sort  it  is ;  our  love,  of  what  strength  it 
is.  He  will  also  try  our  patience  and  our  con- 
stancy. Let  us  not  therefore  bo  surprised  at 
trials,  nor  let  us  be  discouraged  by  them  ;  for 
He  tries  out  of  pure  love,  with  the  best  design, 
according  to  a  wise  rule,  and  at  the  fittest 
season.  He  considers  our  frame,  our  circum- 
stances, and  our  foes;  Ho  does  nothing  rashly  or 
unkindly.  Ho  would  not  put  us  to  pain  if  we 
did  not  need  it ;  trials  are  preservatives  or  re- 
storatives ;  they  keep  us  back  from  evil,  or  are 
intended  to  bring  us  out  of  evil  into  which  we 
have  fallen.  Thy  trials  then  are  from  the  Lord ; 
His  wisdom  selected,  His  love  appointed,  and 
His  pjovidenco  brings  them  about.  If  you  ask, 
"  Why,  Lord,  am  I  tried  thus?"  the  answer  is, 
"  To  humble  thee,  and  to  prove  thee,  and  to  do 
thee  good  at  thy  latter  end."  Receive  every 
trial  as  from  God,  and  go  to  Him  for  strength 
to  bear  it,  grace  to  sanctify  it,  and  deliverance 
from  it ;  and  so  all  will  be  well.  It  is  not  for 
His  pleasure,  but  for  your  profit,  that  you  are  so 
tried. 

The  clouds  of  deepest  woe, 

A  sweet  love-message  bear  ; 
Dark  though  they  seem,  we  cannot  find 

A  frown  of  anger  there. 
56 


FEBRUARY    2  2. 


He  deUghteth  in  mercy.     Mich.  vii.  18. 

The  proper  object  of  mercy  is  misery  ;  sin  has 
rendered  us  miserable,  and  God  has  revealed 
Himself  as  merciful.  He  delighteth  in  mercy  ; 
it  is  a  pleasure  to  Him  to  have  mercy  upon  us  ; 
He  delights  to  pardon  our  sins,  relieve  our 
necessities,  and  save  our  souls.  His  own  glory 
being  secured.  He  delights  to  bless  His  people. 
He  is  styled  the  Father  of  mercies  ;  and  as  a 
father  takes  pleasure  in  his  children,  so  does 
our  God  in  showing  mercy.  He  always  delights 
in  mercy,  therefore  He  does  so  this  morning ; 
go  then  and  mourn  over  thy  sins  which  have 
grieved  Him,  and  rendered  you  miserable ;  go 
and  plead  for  mercy  at  His  throne,  nor  doubt 
for  one  moment  His  pity.  His  kindness,  or  His 
grace.  Have  you  obtained  mercy  ?  Be  zeal- 
ous, to  glorify  God  in  the  day  of  visitation ;  be 
honest,  and  ascribe  all  to  mercy  which  is  her 
due ;  and  be  active  to  spread  the  good  news 
abroad,  assuring  poor  miserable  sinners,  that 
God  delighteth  in  mercy.  With  this  cheek 
thy  fears,  repel  thy  temptations,  and  comfort  thy 
heart.  Believe  it  as  an  undoubted  truth,  plead 
it  as  a  powerful  argument  with  God,  and  daily 
rejoice  in  it.  It  is  sweet  to  be  an  infinite  debtor 
to  mercy. 


'Tis  mercy  in  Jesus  exempts  me  from  hell ; 
Its  glories  I'll  sing,  and  its  wonders  I'll  tell ; 
'Twas  Jesus,  my  friend,  when  He  hung  on  the  tree, 
Who  open'd  the  channel  of  mercy  for  me. 

5Y 


FEBRUARY    2  3. 


Who  loved  me.     Gal.  ii.  20. 

And  what  was  Paul  ?  A  blasphemer,  a  perse- 
cutor, one  who  injured  the  church  of  God. 
And  did  Jesus  love  Paul  ?  Yes — He  loved  me. 
Then  the  love  of  Jesus  is  free,  and  not  on  ac- 
count of  anything  man  is.  The  cause  of  love 
is  in  God,  not  in  the  objects  loved.  You  may 
have  looked  for  some  reason  to  conclude  that 
God  has  loved  you,  but  you  have  been  disap- 
pointed ;  the  Lord  says,  "  I  will  love  them  free- 
ly," When  we  were  dead  in  sins.  He  quick- 
ened us  because  He  loved  us  ;  He  revealed  Jesus 
to  us  because  He  loved  us ;  He  has  given  us  His 
Holy  Spirit  because  He  loved  us.  Whom  once 
He  loves  He  never  leaves.  Jesus  loves  us  this 
morning  with  a  free,  infinite,  and  eternal  love. 
He  loves  our  persons  apart  from  our  graces  and 
acts ;  these  are  the  effects  of  His  love,  and  not 
strictly  the  objects  of  His  love.  O  Holy  Spirit ! 
whisper  to  our  hearts  this  morning,  "  Jesus 
loved  THEE,  even  thee."  Oh,  to  love  Him  in  re- 
turn !  to  love  Him  above  health,  wealth,  comfort, 
yea,  life  itself!  Oh,  to  show  forth  the  praises 
of  His  love  by  humility,  faith,  constancy,  and 
zeal ! 

Great  GoJ,  to  thy  almighty  love 

Wliat  honors  shall  I  raise  ? 
Not  all  the  raptureJ  songs  above, 

Can  render  equal  praise. 
Thy  love  to  nie  surpasses  thought, — 
Oh  could  I  praise  thee  as  I  ought ! 

58 


FEBRUARY    2  4. 


^Vho  gave  Himself  for  7ne.     Gal.  ii.  20. 

Jesus  was  our  substitute.  He  lived,  suffered, 
and  died  in  our  stead.  Our  sins  were  imputed 
to  Him,  punished  in  Him,  and  removed  by 
Him.  God  had  cursed  us,  but  Jesus  gave 
Himself  to  bear  the  curse  in  our  stead ;  every 
threatening  of  the  law  was  executed  on  Him  ; 
every  one  of  the  claims  of  justice  was  answered 
by  Him ;  and  now  God  is  just  and  yet  the 
justifier  of  every  one  that  believeth  in  Jesus. 
The  debt-book  is  crossed,  the  handwriting  that 
was  against  us  is  destroyed,  and  every  foe  is 
overcome.  Do  we  think  of  the  law  we  have 
broken,  of  the  justice  we  have  provoked,  of  the 
hell  we  have  deserved  ?  Let  us  also  think, 
Jesus  gave  Himself  for  me.  He  satisfied  jus- 
tice, fulfilled  the  law,  and  brought  glory  to  God, 
in  my  nature,  name,  and  stead  ;  and  God  is  in- 
finitely more  honored  by  the  life  and  death  of 
my  substitute,  than  He  could  have  been  either 
by  my  obedience  had  I  never  sinned,  or  by 
punishing  me  for  sin.  This  is  our  rejoicing,  that 
God  can  be  just  in  justifying  us  who  believe  in 
Jesus.  Thanks  be  unto  God  for  His  unspeaka- 
ble sfift. 


Oh  !  let  my  trembling  soul  be  still. 
While  darkness  veils  the  sky ; 

And  wait  thy  wise,  thy  holy  will. 
Wrapt  yet  in  mystery  : 

I  cannot,  Lord !  thy  purpose  see, 

But  all  is  well  since  ruled  by  thee. 

59 


FEBRUARY   25. 


Christ  is  all.     Col.  iii.  11. 

Yes — this  is  God's  purpose,  which  cannot  be 
frustrated,  that  Christ  shall  be  all.  He  is  all 
in  our  justification  and  sanctification,  for  we  are 
justified  and  sanctified  in  his  name.  He  is  all 
in  our  preservation  and  glorification,  for  we  are 
kept  by  His  power,  and  enter  heaven  through 
His  merits.  He  should  be  all  in  our  pursuits, 
pleasures,  hopes,  motives  and  aims.  Many  put 
their  comforts  in  the  place  of  Christ,  and  then 
God  puts  comfort  out  of  their  reach  ;  others  put 
their  graces  in  the  place  of  Christ,  and  then 
faith,  hope,  and  lovo  are  concealed  by  a  cloud. 
There  must  be  nothing  between  God  and  us,  but 
Jesus;  we  must  look  away  from  sin,  from 
graces,  and  from  works,  and  expect  to  be  ac- 
cepted, blessed,  and  honored,  only  in  the  name 
and  for  the  honor  of  Jesus.  Christ  is  our  con- 
quering weapon,  by  which  we  overcome  our 
foes ;  our  plea,  by  which  we  prevail  with  God  ; 
our  righteousness  by  which  we  are  justified ; 
and  our  peace,  which  supports  and  comforts  us 
in  life  and  in  death.  Christ  is  all  we  want,  or 
God  can  give.  He  is  our  sun  and  shield  ;  our 
present  joy,  and  endless  portion. 


Saviour  !  the  k!lo^ylcl^ge  of  thy  love 
Into  ray  soul  convey  : 

Thyself  bestow  !  for  Thee  alone, 
My  all  in  all  I  pray. 

I  would  be  only,  always  tliinC; 

And  prove  the  power  of  love  divine. 
60 


FEBRUARY    2  6. 


Ye  do  dishonor  me.     John  viii.  49. 

This  is  a  complaint  brought  against  us  by  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Let  us  listen  to  it.  He 
has  assured  us  of  His  love,  that  He  seeks  our 
good,  that  He  will  not  be  wroth  with  us ;  we 
dishonor  Him,  therefore,  by  our  fretfulness 
under  trials  and  troubles  ;  by  our  murmuring 
when  all  is  not  as  we  wish ;  by  our  impatience 
to  be  delivered  from  pain  ;  by  our  unbelief  in 
reference  to  His  promises  and  providence ;  by 
our  u nth ank fulness  for  the  many  mercies  we 
receive  ;  by  employing  His  favors  in  Satan's 
service ;  by  limiting  His  power  or  His  good- 
ness ;  by  omitting  duties  from  want  of  love,  or 
zeal ;  by  relying  on  our  services  instead  of  free 
grace ;  and  by  looking  to  others,  instead  of 
looking  only  and  always  to  Him  for  all.  Dis- 
honoring Jesus  must  be  a  great  sin ;  it  pro- 
duces dcadness,  darkness,  and  misery ;  let  us 
realize  its  criminality,  lament  it  before  God, 
seek  repentance  for  it,  and  forgiveness  of  it. 
Oh,  let  us  aim  to  honor  Jesus  by  gratitude, 
patience,  faith,  love,  forbearance,  penitence,  zeal, 
and  constantly  aiming  at  His  glory  I  To  honor 
Him  in  life,  death,  and  forever  ! 


Lord,  draw  my  heart  from  earth  away, 
And  make  it  only  know  Thy  call ; 

Speak  to  my  inmost  soul,  and  say, 
"  I  am  thy  Saviour,  God,  thine  all !" 

Nor  let  me  more  dishonor  Thee, 

But  thy  devoted  servant  be. 

61 


FEBRUARY    27. 


All  things  come  of  Thee.     1  Chron.  xxix.  14. 

Every  good  gift  and  every  perfect  gift  is  from 
above ;  creatures  apart  from  God  are  empty 
cisterns,  dry  wells,  deceitful  brooks.  All  good 
dwells  in  thy  God,  and  flows  from  Him  to 
thee.  Every  crumb  is  from  Christ.  AVhat  He 
gives  freely,  cost  Him  groans,  sweat,  and  blood 
to  procure  for  thee.  View  Him  as  the  source 
of  all  good,  and  His  atonement  as  the  medium 
through  which  all  flows  to  thee.  He  gives 
thee  thy  temporal  mercies,  and  thy  spiritual 
blessings ;  He  gives  thee  also  the  ability  to 
enjoy  them,  and  employ  them  for  His  glory. 
He  directs  all  events,  whether  pleasing  or  pain- 
ful. "  Be  not  angry  with  yourselves,"  said 
Joseph  to  his  brethren,  "  it  was  not  you  but 
God."  To  Him,  therefore,  your  mind  should  be 
directed,  in  prayer,  dependence,  and  praise. 
Look  above  creatures  and  see  the  Lord's  hand, 
as  did  Job,  Eli,  David,  and  Paul.  Rest  with 
unshaken  confidence  and  filial  resignation  on 
His  word,  power,  providence,  and  love  ;  ever 
remembering  that  all  things  come  of  Him.  The 
Lord  will  give  us  that  which  is  good,  and  a 
blessing  with  it,  if  we  are  looking  to,  and  walk- 
ing with  Him.  Every  good  gift  and  every  per- 
fect gift  is  from  above, — from  Jesus. 

He  sank  beneath  our  licavy  woes, 

To  raise  us  to  His  throne ; 
There's  ne'er  a  gift  His  hand  bestows, 

But  cost  His  heart  a  groan. 
62 


FEBRUARY    2  §. 


/  am  He  that  livcth.     Rev.  i.  1 8. 

Jesus  once  died  in  our  stead  ;  He  now  liveth  at 
the  right  hand  of  God.  He  is  the  fountain  of 
life.  Because  He  lives,  His  people  shall  live 
also.  He  lives  in  heaven  to  see  of  the  travail 
of  His  soul,  in  the  regeneration,  sanctification, 
preservation,  and  glorification  of  His  beloved 
family.  He  lives  to  intercede  for  them,  to 
sympathize  with  them,  and  to  pour  down  bless- 
ings upon  them.  He  lives  to  watch  over  them, 
to  counsel  and  direct  them,  and  to  save  them 
for  evermore.  He  lives  to  execute  the  pur- 
poses of  the  Father,  to  manage  all  the  concerns 
of  His  church,  and  to  glorify  us  with  Him- 
self for  evermore.  Gracious  Saviour !  earthly 
friends  may  die,  but  Thou  livcst  ;  temporal 
comforts  may  be  lost,  but  we  have  still  a  place 
in  Thy  heart ;  Thou  art  our  Friend  before  Thy 
Father's  throne.  May  we  ever  remember, 
Jesus  liveth  who  was  dead  ;  and  He  is  alive 
for  evermore,  and  has  the  keys  of  hell  and  of 
death.  Oh  to  live  for  Him  on  earth,  who  lives 
for  us  in  heaven !  Oh,  to  live  like  Him,  that 
as  He  is,  so  we  may  be  in  this  world — repre- 
sentatives of  God  and  holiness  !  Oh,  to  live 
by  faith  on  Him,  in  sweet  and  holy  fellowship 
with  Him. 

He  lives — the  great  Redeemer  lives  ! 
What  joy  the  blest  assurance  gives ! 
And  now,  before  his  Father-God, 
Pleads  the  fuU  merits  of  his  blood. 

63 


FEBRUARY    2  9. 


Love  not  the  world.     1  Jolin  ii.  1 5. 

What  is  the  world  ?  A  shadow.  A  decep- 
tion. The  enemy  of  God.  What  can  it  do 
for  us  ?  It  may  encliant,  but  it  will  deceive. 
It  may  please  for  a  time,  but  it  will  sting  in 
the  end.  It  is  an  enemy's  country ;  we  must 
pass  through  it,  but  we  should  not  be  too  inti- 
mate with  the  inhabitants  of  it.  It  crucified 
our  Saviour  ;  it  is  in  open  rebellion  against  our 
God  ;  it  has  allured,  deceived,  and  injured 
many  of  our  brethren ;  it  is  reserved  unto  fire 
at  the  judgment  of  the  great  day.  We  shall 
soon  be  called  to  leave  it,  we  may  be  called  to- 
day ;  "  For  what  is  our  life  ?  It  is  even  as  a 
vapor,  which  appeareth  for  a  little  while,  and 
then  vanisheth  away."  Let  us  fix  and  spend 
our  love  upon  a  worthier  object ;  let  us  turn  our 
thoughts  to  heaven,  to  Jesus  ;  and  let  us  seek 
grace  that  we  may  daily  and  heartily  say, 
"  Whom  have  I  in  heaven  but  Thee,  and  there 
is  none  upon  earth  I  desire  beside  Thee." 
Precious  Saviour  I  engross  our  attention,  fix 
our  affections,  and  be  always  our  all  in  all  ! 
None  but  Jesus,  none  but  Jesus,  should  be  our 
motto  every  day.  He  alone  is  worthy  of  our 
love  ;  and  He  is  worthy  of  it,  for  He  died  and 
lives  to  win  it. 


Lord,  from  this  world  call  off  my  love, 

Set  my  affections  right ; 
Bid  me  aspire  to  joys  above, 

And  walk  no  more  by  sight. 
64 


MARCH   1. 

Tluj  Maker  is  thine  husband.    Isaiah  liv.  5. 

Sweet  assurance  !  Surprising  condescension. 
Does  Jesus,  by  whom  all  things  were  made,  fill 
this  sweet  relation  ?  Is  He  my  nearest  and 
dearest  relative  ?  Yes — He  loves  thee  more 
than  any  other :  He  is  more  closely  united  to 
thee,  and  more  deeply  interested  in  thee.  He 
is  the  bridegroom,  thou  art  the  bride ;  He  has 
espoused  thee  to  Himself,  has  made  full  pro- 
vision for  all  thy  present  wants,  and  is  gone  to 
prepare  thy  everlasting  habitation,  where  thou 
art  to  dwell  with  Him  and  enjoy  His  love.  The 
relation  really  subsists :  He  regards  thee  as  His 
beloved  bride,  and  He  would  have  thee  live  daily 
in  the  recollection  that  He  is  thy  Lord.  O,  love 
Him  above  all.  Call  upon  Him  with  confi- 
dence. Look  for  Him  with  ardent  lonsin^. 
He  will  come  to  be  glorified  in  His  saints,  and 
admired  in  all  them  that  believe.  Think  not 
that  He  will  ever  forget  the  person,  neglect  the 
concerns,  or  turn  a  <^af  ear  to  the  requests  of 
His  beloved,  blood-bought  bride.  His  love  is 
infinite,  and  the  whole  is  set  on  thee  ;  and  will 
remain  fixed  on  thee  forever.  He  is  in  one 
mind,  and  none  can  turn  Him.  Having  loved 
thee,  He  will  love  thee  unto  the  end. 

Jesus,  my  Shepherd,  Husband,  Friend, 

My  Prophet,  Priest,  and  King, 
My  Lord,  my  Life,  my  Way,  my  End, 

Accept  tiie  praise  I  bring. 


P5 


MARCH   2. 


Resist  the  Devil.    James  iv.  1. 


Every  believer  must  expect  to  be  visited  by 
Satan  ;  he  is  our  adversary  ;  he  is  always 
watching  for  an  opjoortunity  to  injure  us.  He 
first  tempts  us  to  sin,  and  then  accuses  us  of 
sinning.  He  misrepresents  every  subject.  He 
endeavors  to  make  the  world  appear  lovely, 
sin  trifling,  death  terrible  ;  he  generates  hard 
thoughts  of  God,  perverts  His  Holy  Word,  and 
leads  believers  into  bondage.  His  fiery  darts  are 
very  terrible.  Thoughts  the  most  blasphemous, 
horrible,  and  unnatural,  are  often  thrown  into 
the  mind  by  him ;  and  then  he  lays  them  to  our 
charge,  and  distresses  our  souls  on  account  of 
them.  But  we  are  called  upon  to  resist  him 
steadfast  in  the  faith,  believing  what  God  is  to 
us ;  what  Christ  has  done  for  us  ;  what  He  has 
promised  to  give  us  ;  and  that  God  will  bruise 
him  under  our  feet  shortly.  The  triumphing  of 
this  WICKED  ONE  is  but  short ;  for  we  shall  over- 
come him  by  the  blood  of  the  Lamb,  and  the 
word  of  His  testimony.  Look  to  Jesus,  call 
upon  thy  God,  and  oppose  the  blood  and  right- 
eousness of  Jesus  to  all  his  charges.  He  is 
mighty,  but  thy  Jesus  is  almighty.  Take  this 
shield  of  faith,  and  thou  shalt  quench  all  the  fiery 
darts  of  the  wicked  one. 


Temptations  everywhere  annoy ; 
And  sins  and  snares  my  peace  destroy : 
Lord,  let  thy  presence  be  my  stay, 
And  guard  me  in  this  dangerous  way. 
66 


MARCH   3. 


Let  us  have  grace.     Heb.  xii.  28. 

We  daily  need  grace  to  sustain  us  in  troubles ; 
to  subdue  our  corruptions  ;  to  sanctify  our 
tempers ;  to  preserve  us  in  temptation ;  to 
quicken  our  languid  affections  ;  to  enlarge  our 
experience ;  to  render  us  useful  to  others  ;  to 
enable  us  to  endure  to  the  end ;  and  to  meet 
death  with  confidence  and  joy.  Our  God  is  the 
God  of  all  grace.  Jesus  is  full  of  grace,  and 
He  giveth  more  grace.  He  has  promised  it, 
"  He  will  give  grace ;"  He  has  invited  us  to 
come  and  receive  it,  "Come  boldly  to  the  throne 
of  grace,  that  ye  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find 
grace  to  help  in  time  of  need."  His  grace  is 
sufficient  for  us  ;  but  without  grace  we  are  dull, 
lifeless,  and  sure  to  fall.  Oh  let  us  look  to 
Jesus  for  grace  to  strengthen  us,  sanctify  us, 
and  make  us  useful.  Let  us  never  attempt  any- 
thing in  our  own  strength  ;  but  let  us  receive 
from  the  Lord,  that  we  may  live  to  the  Lord  ; 
and  ascribe  all  that  we  do  that  is  good,  to  the 
grace  of  God  which  is  with  us.  Grace  is  always 
free.  It  is  free  for  us,  for  us  this  morning,  and 
our  God  bids  us  come  and  receive.  Come  then 
boldly  to  the  throne  of  grace,  and  you  shall 
obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to  help  you  this 
day. 

On  me,  ray  King,  exert  thy  po\rer, 

Make  old  things  pass  away ; 
Transform  and  draw  my  soul  to  Thee, 

Still  nearer  every  dny. 

67 


MARCH   4. 
Only  believe.     Mark  v.  35. 

TfiAT  is,  take  God  at  His  word.  Give  Him 
credit  for  meaning  what  He  says,  for  being 
faithful  to  his  own  word ;  and  then  what  will 
become  of  your  fears  ?  God  speaks  to  you  in 
language  which  you  can  understand  ;  He  prom- 
ises all  you  can  possibly  need ;  He  bids  you 
put  Him  in  remembrance,  and  plead  with 
Him ;  and  He  pledges  His  character  for  the 
comfort  of  your  heart.  If  you  believe  not,  you 
make  God  a  liar  ;  you  bring  darkness  on  your 
own  soul ;  you  give  Satan  an  occasion  against 
you  ;  and  a  thousand  doubts,  fears,  and  suspi- 
cions distress  you.  Is  it  any  wonder  ?  Can  you 
oflfer  a  greater  insult  to  God  than  deliberately 
to  disbelieve  His  word  ?  But  you  ask.  Are  the 
promises  made  to  me  ?  Yes,  to  every  one  that 
believeth,  and  to  you  if  you  believe.  And  the 
Spirit  is  promised  to  work  faith  in  your  heart ; 
complain  not  then  of  the  difficulty  of  believing, 
or  of  the  power  of  unbelief ;  but  go  to  thy  God 
and  plead  with  Him,  crying,  "  Lord,  increase 
my  faith  :"  and  go  to  His  word,  as  to  the 
word  of  a  gracious  Father,  and  endeavor  to 
believe  it. 


Why,  my  soul !  art  thou  perplexed  ? 
Why  with  faithless  trouble  vexed  f 
Hope  in  God,  ■whose  saving  name 
Thou  shalt  joyfully  pi'oclaim, 
When  his  countenance  siial]  shine 
Throiii^-h  tlie  clonic  Ihat  tiarken  thine. 
68 


MARCH    5. 


Feo.r  thou  not.     Isaiah  xli.  10. 

The  Lord's  people  are  all  prone  to  fear ;  be- 
cause they  do  not  realize  their  relation  to  God, 
their  interest  in  the  promises  of  God,  and  that 
they  are  always  in  the  presence  of  God. 
How  graciously  our  God  forbids  our  slavish 
fears,  and  encourages  confidence  in  Himself ! 
Our  slavish  fears  dishonor  Him,  our  filial  confi- 
dence glorifies  Him.  He  loves  to  be  trusted  ; 
He  is  grieved  by  our  doubts  and  fears.  We 
should  fear  nothing  but  sin ;  and  if  we  fear  sin, 
follow  holiness,  and  preserve  a  conscience  void 
of  oftence  toward  God  and  man  ;  if  we  live 
upon  His  word,  daily  use  the  open  fountain,  and 
cultivate  communion  with  our  God,  we  can 
have  no  cause  to  fear.  Beloved,  leave  anxiety, 
distrust,  and  slavish  fear,  to  the  poor,  godless 
worldling ;  but  trust  thou  in  the  living  God 
always,  and  everywhere.  Hope  in  God  ;  wait 
upon  God  ;  expect  from  God  ;  follow  hard  after 
God  :  and  all  you  want  will  be  given,  and  all 
that  would  injure  you  will  be  frustrated.  Be 
not  afraid,  only  believe  ;  Jesus  is  with  thee,  and 
will  preserve,  bless,  and  keep  thee  ;  therefore, 
"Fear  thou  not." 


And  art  Thou  with  me,  gracious  Lord, 

To  dissipate  my  fear  ? 
Dost  thou  proclaim  Thyself  my  God, 

My  God  forever  near  ? 
Then  farewell,  anxious,  gloomy  care, 
Since  God  forbids  my  soul  to  fear. 

69 


MARCH   6. 


Walk  worthy  of  God.     1  Thess.  ii.  12. 

God  hath  called  us  with  an  holy  calling,  to 
enjoy  a  holy  Saviour,  believe  a  holy  gospel, 
possess  a  holy  nature,  and  walk  in  a  holy  way. 
All  the  provisions  of  free  grace,  all  the'promises 
of  infinite  love,  and  all  the  precepts  of  reigning 
holiness,  unite  to  require  us  to  be  a  holy  people 
unto  the  Lord  our  God.  We  are  to  imitate  the 
conduct  of  our  God  ;  He  feeds  His  foes,  loves 
His  people,  and  always  acts  becoming  His 
glorious  character.  Enemies  will  lie  in  wait 
to  deceive  you,  errors  will  be  broached  to  mis- 
lead you ;  but  beware,  lest  being  led  away  by 
the  error  of  the  wicked,  ye  fall  from  your  own 
steadfastness.  Consider  your  character, — chil- 
dren of  God;  your  high  privileges, — united  to 
Jesus,  temples  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  companions 
of  saints  and  angels,  the  friends  of  God ;  your 
destination, — to  fill  a  throne  of  glory,  wear  a 
blood-bought  crown,  and  reflect  the  praises  of 
Jehovah  forever.  Walk  worthy  of  God,  suit- 
able to  your  character,  profession,  and  destina- 
tion. Walk  with  God  ;  walk  as  Jesus  walked  ; 
walk  circumspectly  ;  walk  in  love  ;  walk  hon- 
estly as  in  the  day  ;  so  will  you  adorn  your 
profession,  and  secure  to  yourself  comfort  and 
peace. 

% 

Oh  !  for  a  closer  walk  with  God, 
A  calm  and  heavenly  frame, — 

A  light  to  shine  upon  the  road 
That  leads  me  to  the  Lamb  ! 
70 


MARCH    7. 
Ephraim  mi/  dear  so7i.    Jer.  xxxi.  20. 

Poor  fickle,  backsliding  Ephraim,  is  thus  call- 
ed by  our  infinitely  gracious  God.  Adopted  by 
grace  into  the  heavenly  family,  taught  by  the 
Spirit  and  united  to  Jesus,  God  views  us 
through  Him  ;  and  having  predestinated  us  to 
be  conformed  to  the  image  of  His  Son,  He 
views  things  which  are  but  purposed  as  accom- 
plished, and  we  are  comely  through  the  comeli- 
ness He  has  put  upon  us.  His  love  to  us  is 
wonderful;  He  says,  "He  that  toucheth  you, 
toucheth  the  apple  of  His  eye."  He  rejoices  to 
do  us  good,  and  gives  His  angels  charge  over 
us>  He  will  not  suffer  any  one  really  to  hurt 
us ;  but,  lest  this  should  be  the  case.  He  will 
keep  us  night  and  day.  Let  us  then  abide  in 
Jesus  ;  let  us  cultivate  communion  with  this 
gracious  God  ;  let  us  follow  on  to  know  the 
Lord ;  trust  in  Him  at  all  times ;  wait  upon 
Him  continually  ;  and  rejoice  in  this  delightful 
fact,  that  God  calls  us  "his  dear  sons,  ms 
PLEASANT  CHILDREN."  He  not  ouly  calls  us 
so,  but  treats  us  as  such  ;  and  addresses  us  as 
such  in  His  holy  word.  Let  us  call  Him  our 
Father,  and  look  to  Him  for  all  we  need  ;  so  shall 
we  honor  Him,  conquer  Satan,  and  enjoy  peace. 
Our  Father  is  God :  our  God  is  our  Father. 
♦ 

If  I've  the  honor,  Lord,  to  be 
One  of  thy  numerous  family, 
On  me  the  gracious  gift  bcsto-w, 
To  call  Thee  Abba,  Father  !  too. 

71 


MARC  H    §, 

They  need  not  depart.     Matt.  xiv.  16. 

How  many  things  concur  to  lead  or  drive  us 
away  from  Jesus !  But  we  need  not  depart 
from  Him  ;  He  has  everything  we  can  possibly 
want,  for  body  or  soul,  for  time  or  eternity. 
He  gives  grace  and  glory,  and  no  good  thing 
will  He  withhold  from  them  that  walk  uprightly. 
Having  called  us,  and  drawn  us  to  Hini,  He 
wishes  us  to  abide  with  Him ;  and  if  tempted 
to  leave  Him,  to  whom  can  we  go  ?  He  will 
supply  every  want,  sanctify  every  trial,  enable 
us  to  overcome  ev^y  difficulty,  and  make  us 
happy  in  His  own  love.  The  world  will  allure 
you,  Satan  will  try  to  drive  you,  and  inward  <ie- 
pravity  will  prompt  you  to  wander ;  but  keep 
near  to  Jesus  this  day  ;  think  of  Him,  look  to 
Him,  call  upon  Him,  converse  with  Him ;  make 
Him  your  Companion,  Friend,  and  God.  There 
is  no  real  happiness,  or  solid  peace,  but  in  the 
presence  and  blessing  of  Jesus;  and  when  He 
giveth  quietness  none  can  make  trouble.  If  you 
wander,  if  you  look  to  others,  if  you  set  your 
affections  on  anything  below,  you  cannot  justify 
your  conduct,  for  you  need  not  depart.  He  is 
all.  He  has  all.  He  will  give  all.  You  have 
only  to  believe  His  word,  and  your  wants  shall 
be  all  supplied. 

• 

Oh,  let  us  ever  ■walk  in  Him, 
And  nothing  know  beside  ; 

Nothing  desire,  nor  aught  esteem, 
But  Jesus  crucified, 
72 


MARCH   9. 

Hear  ye  Him.    Matt.  xviL  5. 

Jesus  speaks  to  us  in  His  word  ;  He  tells  us  all 
His  rnind ;  and  the  Father  commands  us  to 
hear  Him.  He  speaks  to  us  in  a  variety  of  sub- 
jects; He  instructs,  exhorts,  warns,  directs,  and 
comforts.  He  always  speaks  in  love.  Every 
word  is  intended  to  do  us  good.  Let  us  then 
take  up  His  word  and  say,  "  I  will  hear  what 
God  the  Lord  will  speak."  How  much  better 
this  than  to  listen  to  Satan,  unbelief,  carnal 
reason,  or  men.  Let  us  believe  what  He  says, 
for  He  speaks  truth  ;  expect  what  He  promises, 
for  He  intends  to  bestow ;  practise  what  He 
commands,  for  His  ways  are  peace ;  and  abstain 
from  what  He  prohibits,  for  it  is  sure  to  be  in- 
jurious. Hear  Him,  and  plead  His  word  in 
prayer.  Hear  Him,  and  oppose  what  He  says, 
to  fear,  Satan,  and  appearances.  Hear  Him, 
and  compare  all  doctrines  with  His  word.  Hear 
Jesus  every  day,  give  Him  your  attention  at 
least  for  a  few  minutes ;  you  can  hear  nothing 
better  than  what  He  speaks ;  no  one  that  has  a 
greater  claim  upon  your  attention.  Hearing 
Jesus  with  attention,  prayer,  and  faith,  will  pre- 
vent a  great  number  of  real  evils. 

Jesus,  my  Prophet,  heaveuly  Guide! 
Thy  sweet  instructions  I  will  hear ; 
The  worus  that  from  Thy  lips  proceed, 
Oh  liow  diviuely  sweet  they  are ! 
Thee,  my  great  Prophet,  I  would  love, 
And  imitate  the  blest  above. 

T3 


MARCH    10. 


Trouble  is  near.     Psalm  xxii.  11. 

Trouble  and  the  Christian  are  seldom  far 
apart,  or  long  apart ;  this  may  sound  discourag- 
ing ;  but  Jesus  and  the  Christian  are  never 
apart.  He  will  never  leave  us,  and  trouble  is 
intended  to  prevent  our  leaving  Him,  or  to 
bring  us  back  if  we  have  already  wandered. 
The  loving  heart  guides  the  hand  which  smites  ; 
and  nothing  is  done  by  Him,  or  permitted,  but 
that  it  may  be  overruled  for  our  good.  Trouble 
may  be  near,  but  the  throne  of  grace  also  is 
near ;  His  word  of  promise  is  near  ;  and  He  is 
near  who  justifieth  us.  In  trouble  God  can 
glorify  His  grace,  deepen  His  work  in  your 
heart,  brighten  your  evidences,  and  fill  you 
with  joy  and  peace  in  believing ;  plead  with 
Him  to  do  so,  let  not  trouble  fill  you  with 
confusion,  weaken  your  faith,  or  drive  you 
from  Him ;  but  listen  to,  and  act  upon  His 
word.  He  says,  "Call  upon  me  in  the  day  of 
trouble,  I  will  deliver  thee,  and  thou  shalt 
glorify  Me."  "  I  will  be  with  him  in  trouble,  I 
will  deliver  him  and  honor  him."  "  Hath  He 
said,  and  shall  He  not  do  it  ?  He  hath  spoken, 
and  shall  He  not  make  it  good?"  Every 
trouble  is  intended  to  endear  Jesus  to  your  heart. 

This  land  thro'  which  His  pilgrims  go, 

Is  desolate  and  dry  : 
But  streams  of  grace  from  Him  o'erflow, 

Their  thirst  to  satisfy : 
Jesus  lias  all  His  saints  can  want, 
And  when  they  need  He'll  freely  grant 
•74 


MARCH    H. 


Beloved,  now  are  we  the  sons  of  God. 
1  John  iii.  2. 

What  surprising  grace  is  this.  For  what  are 
we?  Poor,  vile,  depraved,  unworthy  sinners. 
So  base  by  nature  that  we  had  not  one  redeem- 
ing quality,  and  even  now,  apart  from  the  work 
of  the  Spirit,  there  is  in  us  no  good  thing.  But 
we  were  predestinated  to  the  adoption  of 
children  ;  we  were  born  again  of  the  Spirit ; 
and  grace  has  put  us  among  the  children,  for 
its  own  glorification.  Beloved,  now,  while  we 
feel  so  much  corruption,  while  despised  by  the 
world,  harassed  by  Satan,  tormented  with  fears, 
NOW  are  we  the  sons  of  God.  And  will  God 
neglect  or  disregard  his  beloved  sons  ?  No — 
let  us  then  cherish  the  thought,  believe  the 
fact,  and  rejoice  in  the  relationship.  Let  us 
walk  and  act  as  the  sons  of  God,  coming  out 
from  among  the  formal,  the  self-righteous,  and 
the  profane  ;  and  devoting  ourselves  entirely  to 
the  Lord's  service  and  glory.  Let  us  remember 
in  trouble,  in  sickness,  and  in  death  itself,  God 
is  oLir  Father,  Jesus  is  our  brother,  and  heaven 
is  our  home.  Let  us  approach  God  as  children, 
and  plead  with  Him  as  sons.  He  says  to  us, 
"  Come  near  unto  me,  my  son,  that  I  may  bless 
thee." 

Th^  God  who  reigns  above,  we  call 

Our  Father  and  our  Friend : 
And,  blessed  thought !  His  cliildren  all 

Shall  see  Him  in  the  end. 

75 


MARCH    12. 


We  shall  be  like  Him.     1  John  iii.  2. 

Like  whom  ?  Like  Jesus  in  His  glorified  hu- 
manity. As  free  from  sin,  as  perfect  in  holiness, 
as  completely  happy.  His  likeness  will  appear 
in  every  believer.  What  a  contrast  with  the 
present !  Now  we  appear  to  ourselves,  at 
times,  as  like  Satan  as  possible.  Oh,  the  depth 
of  depravity  we  discover,  the  powerful  corrup- 
tions we  feel,  the  fearful  opposition  to  God  we 
sometimes  experience !  But  we  shall  be  like 
Him.  God  has  purposed  it,  the  gospel  plainly 
reveals  it,  and  the  Holy  Spirit  is  engaged  to 
effect  it.  Every  evil  shall  be  purged  out,  every 
virtue  shall  be  produced  and  perfected,  and  we 
shall  be  pure  as  He  is  pure.  Let  us  then  look 
forward  to,  and  anticipate  that  glorious  period : 
let  us  consider  the  end  of  our  election,  redemp- 
tion, and  calling;  and  let  us  pray,  pant,  and 
strive  to  be  holy.  If  holiness  is  our  element, 
heaven  will  be  our  home,  and  unspeakable 
happiness  our  eternal  portion.  But  we  know 
not  what  we  shall  be,  only  that  we  shall  be  like 
Him,  for  we  shall  see  Him  as  He  is.  If  we  suf- 
fer, we  shall  also  reign  with  Him. 

Oh  !  glorious  hour  ! — Oh !  blest  abode  ! 
I  shall  be  near,  and  like  my  God ; 
And  flesh  and  sin  no  more  control 
The  sacred  pleasures  of  the  soul. 

My  flesh  shall  slumber  in  the  ground, 
Till  the  last  trumpet's  joyful  sound  : 
Thin  bur'-.t  the  chain-j.  ■with  sweet  surprise, 
And  in  my  Saviour's  image  rise. 
76 


MARCH    13. 


Seek  those  things  which  are  above.     Col.  iii.  1. 

And  what  are  the  things  which  are  above  ? 
Holiness — or  conformity  to  Jesus,  and  entire 
devotedness  to  His  service.  Happiness — flowing 
from  the  manifestation  of  Jehovah's  glory,  the 
presence  of  Jesus,  and  the  soul's  delight  in  His 
will.  Unity — saints  above  realize  close,  inti- 
mate, and  indestructible  union  to  Father,  Son, 
and  Spirit ;  they  enjoy  sweet  and  constant 
union  with  each  other,  and  the  holy  angels ; 
they  have  unity  of  design,  work,  and  enjoyment. 
Seek  those  things  which  descend  from  above ; 
as  faith — which  believes,  trusts,  and  prefers 
God's  word  :  love — which  has  God  for  its 
author,  Christ  for  its  principal  object,  and 
spiritual  things  for  its  chosen  subjects  ;  fellow- 
ship— with  Father,  Son,  and  Spirit,  and  all 
spiritual  persons  and  subjects.  In  a  word, 
all  spiritual  gifts,  graces,  and  operations.  Seek 
them  earnestly,  principally,  and  constantly. 
Think  much  and  often  upon  them.  Highly 
value  and  esteem  them.  Constantly  prefer 
them  to  earthly  things.  Labor  to  possess  and 
enjoy  them.  God  giveth  liberally,  and  upbraid- 
eth  not.  You  have  not,  because  you  ask  not. 
^sk  and  receive.  Receive  and  be  happy.  Your 
God  bids  you  "  Rejoice." 

Rise,  my  soul,  and  stretch  thy  wings, 

Thy  better  portion  trace  ; 
Rise  from  transitory  things. 

Towards  heaven,  thv  native  place. 

7*7 


MARCH    14. 


Lord,  what  is  man  !     Psalm  cxliv.  3. 

By  nature  he  is  aa  enemy  to  God,  in  open 
rebellion  against  Him,  and  justly  condemned 
by  Him.  He  is  in  love  with  sin,  a  slave  to 
lust,  a  servant  of  Satan.  He  is  blind  to  his 
best  interests,  deaf  to  the  calls  of  God,  and  dead 
in  trespasses  and  sin.  He  is  an  open  sepul- 
chre, a  mass  of  wretchedness  and  disease, 
abominable  and  filthy  beyond  description.  And 
can  such  a  creature  be  the  object  of  Jehovah's 
love,  the  purchase  of  a  Saviour's  blood,  and  the 
habitation  of  the  Holy  Spirit?  Yes — as  such, 
they  were  chosen  to  salvation — as  such,  Jesus 
was  sent  into  the  world  to  redeem  them — as 
such,  the  Holy  Spirit  came  to  quicken,  cleanse, 
justify,  and  save  them !  O  amazing  grace  ! 
Astonishing  mercy !  And  will  God  in  very 
deed  dwell  with  such  creatures  upon  earth  ? 
Yes — "  To  this  man  will  I  look,  and  with  him 
will  I  dwell,  that  is  poor,  and  of  a  contrite  spirit, 
and  that  trembleth  at  ray  word."  Well  may 
the  patriarch  exclaim,  "What  is  man  that  Thou 
shouldest  magnify  him  ?  and  that  Thou  should- 
est  set  thine  heart  upon  him  ?" 

Oh,  what  is  feeble,  dying  man,  9 

Or  any  of  his  race, 
That  God  should  make  it  his  concern 

To  visit  him  with  grace  ! 
That  God,  who  darts  His  lightnings  down. 

Who  shakes  tlie  worlds  above. 
And  mountains  tremble  at  His  frown. 

How  wondrous  is  His  love  ! 
78 


MARCH   15. 


A  Christian.     1  Peter  iv.  16. 

A  Christian  wears  the  name,  possesses  the 
nature,  breathes  the  spirit,  lives  the  life,  and 
devotes  himself  entirely  to  the  glory  of  Jesus. 
All  Christ  has  is  his,  all  Christ  has  done  was 
for  him,  and  all  Christ  has  promised  he  may 
expect.  Are  you  a  Christian?  Is  the  matter 
doubtful  ?  Does  Jesus  live  in  you  ?  Are  you 
living  by  faith  upon  Him  ?  Is  He  your  daily 
bread  ?  Do  you  find  that  you  could  as  well 
live  without  food,  as  without  Jesus?  This  is  a 
sure  evidence.  This  is  the  certain  effect  of  the 
Spirit's  work.  If  you  are  a  Christian,  you 
pant,  pray,  and  strive  to  be  Christ-like ;  to 
bear  about  in  your  body  the  dying  of  the  Lord 
Jesus,  that  the  life  also  of  Jesus  may  be  made 
manifest  in  your  mortal  body.  You  put  off  the 
old  man  which  is  corrupt,  and  put  on  the  new 
man  which  is  created  in  righteousness  and  true 
holiness.  You  may  live  in  newness  of  life,  as 
one  raised  from  the  dead ;  exhibiting  the  effects 
of  His  death  in  deadness  to  the  world,  love  to 
immortal  souls,  bearing  testimony  to  the  truth, 
and  looking  for,  and  hasting  to,  the  coming  of 
the  day  of  God. 


Father,  in  me  reveal  thy  Son ; 
And  in  my  inmost  soul  make  knovm 

How  merciful  Thou  art : 
The  secret  of  Thy  love  reveal, 
And  by  Tliine  hallowing  Spirit  dwell 

Forever  in  my  heart. 

79 


MARCH    16. 


Thy  God  reigndh.     Isaiah  lii.  7. 

Jesus  has  power  over  all  flesh.  He  is  upon 
the  throne  of  the  universe.  He  superintends  all 
things.  His  will  cannot  be  frustrated.  His  de- 
signs must  be  accomplished.  Nothing  is  left  to 
chance.  His  hand  is  in  every  event.  He  rales 
over  the  world  by  His  power.  He  rules  in  the 
church  by  His  word  He  rules  in  the  heart 
by  His  Spirit.  He  reigns  to  crush  or  convert 
thy  foes ;  to  secure  thy  well-being  and  His 
glory.  Let  this  truth  calm  and  compose  thy 
mind  at  all  times :  "  My  God  reigneth."  He 
sitteth  above  the  water-floods,  He  remainetb  a 
king  forever.  He  is  entitled  to  all  honor.  He 
is  the  proper  object  of  thy  fear,  faith,  and  love. 
See  Him  on  His  throne  and  rejoice ;  for  it  in- 
volves thy  safety,  happiness,  and  honor.  Do 
men  oppress  ?  does  Satan  annoy  ?  are  things 
going  cross  ?  This  is  thy  comfort,  God  reign- 
eth :  He  directs  and  controls  every  being  and 
every  event.  Gracious  God  I  may  I  ever  live 
believing  that  the  reins  of  government  are  in 
Thy  hands ;  and  that  Thy  counsel  shall  stand, 
and  that  Thou  wilt  do  all  Thy  pleasure.  My 
God,  reign  in  me  ! 


His  kingdom  cannot  fail ; 

He  rules  o'er  earth  and  heaven ; 

The  keys  of  death  and  hell 

Are  to  our  Jesus  given  : 
Lift  up  the  heart,  lift  up  the  voice, 
Rejoice  aloud,  ye  saints,  rejoice. 
80 


MARCH    17. 


God  was  manifest  in  the  flesh.     1  Tim.  iii.  1 6. 

The  manifestation  of  God  is  in  the  person  and 
work  of  Cliri-st,  and  we  are  herefrom  to  learn 
what  our  God  is,  and  what  we  may  expect 
Him  to  do  for  us.  What  Jesus  was  to  those 
about  Him,  such  Jehovah  is ;  what  Jesus  did 
and  was  willing  to  do,  that  our  God  is  willing 
to  do  for  us.  In  Jesus  we  see  tender  love, 
melting  compassion,  and  gracious  forbearance  ; 
mercy  and  power,  rectitude  and  pity,  holiness 
and  long-suffering,  justice  and  harmlessness, 
united.  Such  is  our  God.  Fnry  is  not  in  Him. 
Love  is  His  name  and  His  nature.  iVnd  can 
you  slavishly  fear  such  a  God  ?  Can  you  wil- 
fully sin  against  and  grieve  such  a  being  ?  Can- 
not you  believe  his  word,  depend  upon  His 
veracity,  rejoice  in  His  name,  and  expect  from 
Him  every  promised  good  ?  For  this  purpose 
His  word  was  writtefl,  His  name  is  published, 
and  Jesus  died.  Always  look  at  G-od  in  Christ ; 
attempt  not  to  learn  God  from  nature.  "  No 
man  hath  seen  God  at  any  time  ;  the  only  begot- 
ten Son,  which  is  in  the  bosom  of  the  Father, 
He  hath  declared  Him."     "  I  have  manifested 

THY    NAME." 


Till  God  in  human  flesh  I  see, 

My  thoughts  no  comfort  find  ; 
The  holy,  just,  and  sacred  Three, 

Are  terrors  to  my  mind  : 
But  if  Imjianuel's  face  appear, 
Mr  soul  surmounts  each  slavish  fear, 

81 


MARCH    1§. 


But  He  answered  her  not  a  vtord.     Matt.  xy.  23. 

Delays  are  not  denials.  Jesus  delayed  to  an- 
swer, but  He  did  not  deny  her  request.  He 
hath  said,  "  Ask,  and  it  shall  be  given  you. 
Whatsoever  ye  shall  ask  the  Father  in  my 
name,  He  will  give  it  you."  Heaven  and  earth 
may  pass  away,  but  His  word  must  stand  for- 
ever. He  delays  the  answer  to  try  our  faith, 
patience,  and  perseverance  ;  but  when  He  sends 
the  blessing  He  proves  His  faithfulness,  pity, 
and  love.  Be  not  discouraged  though  your 
prayers  remain  unanswered  for  a  time  ;  it  will 
not  be  always  so.  This  poor  woman  had  to 
wait,  though  her  case  was  very  trying,  and 
her  request  very  urgent ;  but  at  last  Jesus 
commended  her  faith  publicly,  and  dismissed 
her  with,  "Be  it  unto  thee  even  as  thou  wilt." 
Prayer  will  prevail,  if  it  is  the  prayer  of  faith. 
Pray  on,  then,  and  do  not*  faint.  Say  as  Jacob 
on  the  plains  of  Peniel,  "  I  will  not  let  thee  go 
except  thou  bless  me."  Plead  with  Him  ;  be 
importunate ;  wait  His  time  ;  be  willing  to 
receive  in  His  own  way ;  be  concerned  that  He 
should  be  glorified  in  giving  to  you,  or  doing  for 
you  ;  and  you  cannot  fail.  His  mercy  is  from 
everlasting  to  everlasting,  upon  them  that  fear 
Him. 

Then  let  us  earnest  cry, 

And  never  faint  in  prayer  ; 
He  sees,  he  hears,  and,  from  on  high, 

Will  make  our  cause  his  care. 
82 


MARCH    19. 


In  His  favor  is  Uff.     Psalm  xxx.  5. 

That  is,  in  the  favor  of  God  in  Christ.  If  He 
have  a  favor  towards  us,  all  will  be  well ;  but 
He  has,  and  as  a  proof  of  His  favor  He  gave 
Jesus  for  us,  and  to  us ;  He  sent  the  Holy 
Spirit  to  quicken,  teach,  and  sanctify  us.  By 
believing  we  enter  into  the  enjoyment  of  His 
favor :  and  enjoying  His  favor  we  learn  to 
despise  all  that  is  opposed  to  it.  Our  spiritual 
life  flowed  from  His  favor ;  our  happiness  stands 
in  the  enjoyment  of  His  favor ;  and  heaven 
will  be  the  full  display  and  realization  of  His 
favor.  To  His  favor  we  ascribe  all  our  present 
comfort  and  future  hopes.  By  the  favor  of 
God  we  are  what  we  are.  By  His  favor  we 
are  saved.  This  is  the  source  of  every  good, 
the  joy  of  every  true  believer's  heart.  Let 
us  endeavor  to  ascertain  beyond  a  doubt,  that 
we  are  the  favorites  of  God ;  let  us  prize  His 
favor  above  thousands  of  gold  and  silver  ;  and 
let  our  daily  prayer  be,  "  Remember  me,  O 
Lord,  with  the  favor  that  thou  bearest  unto  Thy 
people :  O,  visit  me  with  Thy  salvation,  that  I 
may  see  the  good  of  Thy  chosen,  that  I  may  re- 
joice in  the  gladness  of  Thy  nation,  and  glory 
with  Thine  inheritance.  Amen,  even  so,  Lord 
Jesus." 


Early,  my  God !  without  delay, 

I  haste  to  seek  thy  face  ; 
My  thirsty  spirit  faints  away, 

Without  thy  cheering  grace. 

83 


MARCH   20. 


The  Lord  is  risen.    Luke  xxiv.  34. 

Jesus  once  died  for  our  sins,  and  He  rose  for 
our  justification.     He  lay  in  the  grave  as  our 
substitute,  He  rose  as  our  representative.     He 
died  that  we  may  live.     He  lives,  and  we  shall 
live  through  Him,  and  with  Him  forever.     He 
is  risen,  having  conquered  death,  reconciled  us 
to  God,  perfumed  the  grave,  and  finished  the 
work  which  the  Father  gave  Him    to  do.     As 
He   arose,   so  shall  we.      As  He  is  gone   into 
heaven,  thither  should  our  thoughts,  our  hopes, 
and  our  affections  ascend.     Jesus  has  risen,  to 
plead  our  cause  ;  manage  our  affairs  ;  fulfil  His 
precious  promises  ;  and  to  prepare  for  us  mansions 
in  our  Father's  house.     Sin  was  atoned  for  by 
His  death,  heaven  is  secured  by  his  life.     He  is 
our  risen,  ascended,  and  reigning  brother.     He 
is  our  conquering  and  crowned  captain.     Oh,  let 
us  think  of,  speak  for,  and  devote  ourselves  to 
Jesus.     He  is  above  the  world;  let  us  live  above 
its  vanities,  amusements,  and  trammels  ;  let  us 
look  beyond  death  to  that  glorious  resurrection, 
when  we  shall  be  raised  from  the  dead,  and  pos- 
sess bodies  which  shall  be  incorruptible,  glorious, 
powerful,  and  spiritual. 


Jesus  triumphs !  sing  His  praises ; 

'Twas  by  death  He  overcame  ; 
Thus  the  Lord  His  glory  raises  ; 
Thus  He  fills  His  foes  with  sliame. 

Sing  His  praises  ! 
Praises  to  the  Victor's  name. 
84 


March  31. 


/  will  give  you  rest.     Matt.  xi.  28. 

There  is  no  rest  for  the  Christian  in  the  world. 
There  will  be  always  something  to  disturb, 
perplex,  or  distress  him ;  it  is  an  enemy's  land. 
But  Jesus  says,  "  I  will  give  you  rest."  He 
does  so  by  enabling  us  to  rely  on  His  word, 
recognize  His  hand,  submit  to  His  will,  and 
trust  in  His  perfect  work.  He  assures  us  that 
our  sins  are  forgiven  us  ;  that  our  persons  are 
safe  in  His  keeping ;  that  His  presence  shall 
always  be  with  us  ;  and  that  all  things  shall 
work  together  for  the  best.  We  can  rest  on 
His  faithfulness  ;  He  has  been  tried,  and  found 
faithful.  We  can  rest  on  His  love,  for  it  knows 
not  the  shadow  of  a  turn.  We  can  rest  on  His 
power  ;  it  is  ever  engaged  on  our  behalf  We 
can  rest  on  His  covenant,  it  is  ordered  in  all 
things  and  sure.  We  can  rest  on  His  blood  ;  it 
speaketh  peace,  pardon,  and  acceptance  with 
God.  We  can  rest  at  His  feet ;  there  we  are 
safe,  and  can  never  be  injured.  We  cannot  rest 
on  our  graces,  on  our  comforts,  on  our  friends,  or 
on  our  possessions  ;  but  we  may  rest  on  Jesus — 
we  should  rest  on  Him  with  unshaken  confi- 
dence, and  ardent  love  ;  for  His  promises  are 
plain,  His  power  is  infinite,  and  His  love  passeth 
knowledge. 

God  is  thy  rest ; — with  heart  inclined 
To  keep  His  word,  that  word  believe  ; 

Christ  is  thy  rest ; — with  lowly  mind, 
His  light  and  easy  yoke  receive. 

86 


MARCH    2  2. 


Precious  promises.     2  Pet.  i.  4. 

The  promises  of  scripture  are  the  promises  of 
the  great  God  ;  they  are  all  of  free  grace  ; 
they  are  confirmed  by  the  blood  of  Jesus  ;  and 
are  exceeding  great  and  very  precious.  They 
are  so  plain  that  a  child  can  understand  them  ; 
and  so  great  that  no  angel  could  fulfil  them. 
There  is  such  a  variety  that  they  meet  every 
case ;  and  such  a  fulness  that  they  include 
every  want.  They  are  breasts  of  consolation 
for  the  poor,  tried,  and  distressed  believer  ;  and 
are  the  strength  and  support  of  every  child  of 
God.  They  are  our  plea  at  the  throne  of 
grace,  our  confidence  in  the  hour  of  trial,  and 
our  rejoicing  in  prospect  of  death.  Beloved, 
God's  promises  are  to  be  your  daily  comfort; 
it  is  for  you  to  search  them  out,  store  them  up, 
believe  them,  trust  in  them,  plead  them,  and 
be  assured  of  their  fulfilment,  because,  "He  is 
faithful  who  promised."  The  promises  are  more 
precious  than  gold  or  silver  ;  sweeter  than  honey 
or  the  honey -comb  ;  more  lasting  than  the 
earth  ;  and  more  stable  than  the  pillars  of 
heaven.  Let  us  think  of  them,  plead  them,  and 
expect  their  fulfilment  to-day ;  our  God  is  a 
faithful  God,  keeping  covenant  and  mercy  unto 
a  thousand  generations. 

Praise  to  the  goodness  of  the  Lord, 
Who  rules  His  people  by  His  word ; 
And  there,  as  strong  as  His  decrees, 
He  sets  His  kindest  promises. 


MARCH   23. 


Where  is  your  faith  ?     Luke  viii.  25. 

Tun  disciples  were  in  a  storm,  surrounded  by- 
danger,  and  filled  with  fear ;  they  apply  to 
Jesus — this  was  right ;  they  doubt  His  care, 
question  His  love,  and  cry,  "  We  perish." — 
This  was  wrong.  Jesus  demands,  "  Where  is 
YOUR  FAITH  ?"  May  He  not  put  the  same 
question  to  us?  We  have  His  word,  but  do  we 
heartily  believe  it  ?  We  speak  of  His  love,  but 
do  we  confidently  trust  it  ?  We  read  of  His 
care,  but  do  we  see  our  safety  in  it  ?  We  often 
seem  to  believe  any  one  sooner  than  Jesus  ;  to 
trust  any  word  more  than  His  word  ;  and  there- 
fore we  are  cast  down,  fearful  and  distressed. 
Let  us  this  day  endeavor  to  fix  our  faith  stead- 
ily upon  His  precious  word  ;  let  us  believe  in 
His  particular  providence  ;  let  us  commune 
with  Him  as  our  firm  and  faithful  friend.  He 
says,  "  Let  not  your  hearts  be  troubled,  ye 
believe  in  God,  believe  also  in  Me."  He  is 
worthy  of  credit.  He  cannot  deceive  ;  He  de- 
serves our  confidence.  He  will  not  neglect ;  He 
encourages  our  hope,  and  promises,  "  If  ye  ask 
anything  of  the  Father  in  My  name,  I  will  do 
it."  Do  you  believe  this  ?  Do  you  believe  it 
when  you  pray  ? 

Oh,  bow  wavering  is  my  mind, 
Toss'd  about  with  every  wind ; 
Oh,  how  quickly  doth  my  heart 
.  From  the  living  God  depart : 
O  my  God,  thy  grace  impart. 
To  fix  and  bind  my  wandering  heart. 

87 


MARCH    2  4. 


Thy  sins  are  forgiven.     Luke  vii.  48. 

Whose  sins  ?  Thine,  if  thou  believest  in  Jesus. 
For  to  Him  give  all  the  prophets  witness,  that 
through  His  name  whosoever  believeth  in  Him 
shall  receive  remission  of  sins.  If  we  confess 
our  sins,  God  is  faithful  and  just  to  forgive 
us  our  sins,  and  to  cleanse  us  from  all  unrigiit- 
eousness.  God  pardons,  for  Christ's  sake, 
every  one  who  believeth,  confesseth,  and  for- 
saketh  sin.  He  thus  proves  Himself  ready  to 
forgive,  plenteous  in  mercy,  and  full  of  com- 
passion to  all  who  call  upon  Him.  He  never 
refuses  to  pardon,  nor  manifests  the  least  re- 
luctance. Nor  ought  we  to  doubt  for  one  mo- 
ment upon  the  subject,  seeing  His  word  is  so 
plain.  His  grace  is  so  great.  His  mercy  is  so 
free  ;  and  His  faithfulness  so  clearly  proved. 
What  then  do  we  want?  Only  faith  to  believe 
God's  word,  that  we,  being  believers  in  Jesus, 
having  confessed  sin  at  His  throne,  and  prayed 
for  pardon  in  Christ's  name,  are  forgiven  all  our 
trespasses.  And  this  is  needful,  for  we  can 
never  mortify  sin,  live  above  the  world,  rejoice 
in  God,  and  honor  the  gospel,  but  as  we  believe 
these  sweet  words  of  Jesus,  "  Thy  sins  are  for- 
given THEE." 

How  high  a  privilege  'tis  to  know 

Our  sins  are  all  forgiven  ! 
To  bear  about  this  pledge  below, 

This  special  grant  of  heaven  ! 
0  Lord,  this  privilege  bestow, 

To  cheer  me  while  1  dwell  below. 
88 


MARCH   25. 


Bring  thnn  hither  to  Me.    Matt.  xiv.  18. 

Our  compassionate  Lord  was  surrounded  by  a 
starving,  fainting  multitude  ;  His  disciples  had 
only  live  small  coarse  loaves,  and  two  little 
fishes,  and  yet  He  had  bidden  them  to  feed  the 
company.  The  commands  of  Jesus  are  often 
intended  to  try  our  faith,  and  bring  us  as  chil- 
dren to  His  feet.  He  says,  "  Bring  them  to 
Me."  Things  are  not  what  they  appear,  but 
v\iiat  Jesus  makes  them.  His  blessing  produces 
a  wonderful  change.  He  bids  you  bring  every- 
thing to  Him.  Have  you  a  family  ?  He  says, 
"  Suffer  the  little  children  to  come  unto  Me,  and 
forbid  them  not."  Have  you  trials  ?•  Take 
them  to  Him  ;  His  blessing  sweetens  and  les- 
sens trials.  Are  you  in  poverty  ?  Carry  your 
poverty  to  Him ;  He  can  increase  your  little, 
and  bless  it  with  a  peculiar  flavor.  Whatever 
troubles  you  this  day,  or  any  day,  think  that 
you  hear  Jesus  saying,  "  Bring  it  hither  to  Me." 
Carry  all  things  to  Him,  small  things  as  well  as 
great  ones  ;  it  is  only  by  so  doing,  that  you  can 
surmount  trials  ;  conquer  foes  ;  glory  in  tribula- 
tion ;  and  joy  in  God. 

The  privilege  I  gi-eatly  prize, 

Of  casting  all  my  care  on  Him, 

The  mighty  God,  the  only  -wise, 

Who  reigns  in  heaven  and  earth  supreme, 

How  sweet  to  be  allowed  to  call 

The  Goi  1  whom  heaven  adores  my  Friend ; 

To  tell  my  thoughts,  to  tell  Hitn  all ; 

And  then  to  know  my  prayers  ascend. 


MARCH    2  6. 


He  giveth  power  to  the  faint.     Isa.  xl.  29. 

TiiK  Lord's  people  often  feel  faint,  being  bur- 
dened with  a  body  of  sin  and  death,  pursued  and 
assaulted  by  Satan,  tried  and  hindered  by  the 
world  ;  but  though  faint  they  continue  to  pur- 
sue. Waiting  on  the  Lord  they  renew  their 
strength.  The  Lord  has  said,  "  I  will  strengthen 
thee."  Brother,  remember  the  promise  and 
faithfulness  of  thy  God  ;  yield  not  to  fear,  or 
you  will  surely  faint.  Believe  because  God  is 
true.  David  says,  "  I  had  fainted  unless  I  had 
believed  to  see  the  goodness  of  the  Lord  in  the 
land  of  the  living."  Power  is  given  in  answer 
to  prayer.  Strength  is  proportioned  to  the  day. 
The  back  is  fitted  for  the  burden.  Our  God 
will  not  lay  upon  us  more  than  He  will  enable 
us  to  bear.  He  strengthens  by  His  word,  by 
His  Spirit,  and  by  His  presence  ;  expect  Him 
to  be  and  do  according  to  His  word  ;  this  will 
honor  Him,  and  He  will  strengthen  you  with 
might  by  His  Spirit  in  the  inner  man.  Go 
forth,  however  weak  you  may  feel,  assured  that 
God  will  give  you  strength  and  courage  ;  strength 
to  do  and  suffer  His  will,  and  courage  to  face, 
fight  and  overcome  every  foe. 


Whence  do  our  mournful  thoughts  arise  ? 

And  Where's  our  courage  fled  ? 
Have  restless  sin,  and  raging  hell, 

Struck  all  our  comforts  dead  ? 
Cliase,  chase  thy  gloomy  fears  away, 
Strength  shall  be  equal  to  the  day. 
90 


MARCH   2  7. 


Ask,  and  ye  shall  receive.     John  xvi.  24. 

These  are  the  words  of  Jesus.  He  addresses 
them  to  us  this  morning.  They  suppose  want, 
and  inability  to  supply  ourselves.  They  intimate 
that  provision  is  made  and  may  be  obtained. 
They  invite  us  to  ask  with  confidence,  assuring 
us  we  shall  receive.  Jesus  has  a  boundless  ful- 
ness of  blessings,  and  a  loving  tender  heart  to 
bestow  them.  He  will  supply  all  our  needs. 
Let  not  want,  then,  lead  you  to  despond,  but 
look  to  Jesus ;  He  has.  He  gives.  He  tells  you  to 
ask  and  receive.  Can  any  terms  be  more  easy, 
more  suitable,  more  encouraging  tlian  these  ? 
But  ask  in  faith,  believing  because  Jesus  has 
promised  ;  ask  v^dth  earnestness,  as  though  you 
valued  the  blessings  ;  ask  with  importunity ;  go 
again  and  again,  until  you  obtain  them.  Go  to 
Jesus  for  all  you  want ;  make  everything  a 
matter  of  prayer ;  in  everything,  by  prayer  and 
supplications,  with  thanksgiving,  let  your  re- 
quests be  made  known  to  God.  Doubt  not,  for 
His  word  is  plain  ;  He  is  full  of  compassion  ;  He 
waits  to  be  gracious ;  and  He  has  thousands  of 
witnesses  to  attest  His  faithfulness,  veracity, 
and  love.  Look  to  the  generations  of  old.  Did 
any  ever  seek  the  Lord  in  vain  ?  No  :  every 
one  that  asketh  receiveth. 


My  soul,  ask  what  thou  wilt, 

Thou  canst  not  be  too  bold ; 
Since  His  own  blood  for  thee  He  spilt, 

What  else  can  He  withhold  ? 

91 


MARCH    2§. 


/  am  the  Lord's.    Isa,  xliv.  5. 


Not  only  because  He  has  chosen  me  from 
others,  in  Jesus  His  beloved  Son  ;  nor  merely 
because  I  am  redeemed  from  among  men,  by 
the  precious  blood  of  Immanuel ;  but  also  be- 
cause I  have  surrendered  myself  up  into  the 
Lord's  hands,  with  all  I  have  and  am,  to  be 
taught  by  His  Spirit,  ruled  by  His  v^ord,  sup- 
plied by  His  providence,  and  devoted  to  His 
praise.  The  Lord  claimed  me,  and  I  was 
enabled  to  acknowledge  the  claim  ;  He  has  a 
right  to  me,  and  that  right  should  never  be  for- 
gotten by  me.  Am  I  tempted  to  sin  ?  to 
murmur  ?  to  despond  ?  Let  this  be  my 
preservative,  "I  am  the  Lord's."  How  base, 
ungrateful,  and  wicked  for  me  to  yield  to  sin ; 
for  me  to  complain  of  any  of  His  dispensations  ; 
or  for  me  to  doubt  His  goodness  or  His  grace. 
I  am  the  Lord's,  for  life ;  I  shall  be  the  Lord's 
in  death  ;  and  then  (O  delightful  thought  I)  I 
shall  be  the  Lord's  for  evermore.  He  will  guide 
me  by  His  counsel,  and  afterwards  receive  me 
to  glory.  I  have  only  to  aim  at  His  glory,  walk 
by  His  word,  and  live  at  His  throne,  until  He 
takes  me  to  Himself  My  only  business  on 
earth  is  to  please  God,  and  my  heaven  will  be 
to  enjoy  Him  forever. 


Jesua,  thy  boundless  love  to  me, 

No  thought  can  reach,  no  tongue  declare ; 
Oh,  knit  my  thankful  heart  to  Thee, 
And  reign  witliout  a  rival  there  ! 
92 


MARCH    29. 


Cease  ye  from  man.     Isaiali  ii.  22. 

Never  trust  him,  for  his  heart  is  deceitful ; 
never  expect  from  him,  for  he  is  an  empty 
cistern  ;  never  follow  him,  for  he  is  a  false 
guide.  Cursed  be  the  man  who  trusteth  in 
man,  and  maketh  flesh  his  arm,  and  whose 
heart  departeth  from  the  Lord.  Trust  y«  not 
in  a  friend.  One  object  of  trust  is  enough  : 
He  has  all  you  want,  and  has  offered  to  give 
whenever  you  ask.  He  never  did  deceive,  He 
never  can.  It  is  impossible  for  God  to  lie. 
Looking  to  man,  dishonors  His  fulness ;  trust- 
ing in  man,  is  pouring  contempt  on  His  word  ; 
expecting  from  man,  is  overlooking  His  agency. 
If  you  neglect  this  loving  direction,  expect  to 
suffer;  if  you  walk  by  it,  your  peace  will  be 
like  a  river,  and  your  soul  like  a  well-watered 
garden.  He  knows  what  is  in  man,  you  do 
not.  He  cautions  you,  because  he  loves  you. 
He  would  save  you  from  disappointment,  sorrow, 
and  woe.  Come  then  to  the  conclusion  of  the 
prophet,  "  Therefore  will  I  look  unto  the  Lord  ; 
I  will  wait  for  the  God  of  my  salvation  :  my  God 
will  hear  me." 


Happy  they  who  trust  in  Jesus ! 

Sweet  their  portion  is,  and  sure  : 
When  destruction  others  seizes, 

God  will  keep  His  own  secure  ; 
Happy  people ! 

Happy,  though  despiied  and  poor. 


93 


MARCH   30. 


Yea,  lie  loved  the  people.     Deut.  xxxiii.  3. 

And  what  were  the  people  whom  He  loved  ? 
Poor,  oppressed,  rebellious,  stift-necked,  hard- 
hearted, unworthy  creatures.  Just  such  are 
His  people  by  nature  now.  Such  are  we.  Yet 
He  loves  \is  ;  pities  us ;  and  distinguishes  us 
from  others  around  us.  He  spared  not  his 
own  Son,  but  delivered  Him  up  for  us  all ;  and 
with  Him  He  will  freely  give  us  all  things. 
Though  He  has  not  yet  all  His  people  with 
Him,  yet  He  has  Jesus  sitting  at  His  right 
hand,  who  is  their  representative  ;  the  express 
image  and  exact  likeness  of  His  elect.  All  the 
rays  of  His  love  centre  in  Him,  who  is  the 
head  of  His  body  the  Church.  All  the  streams 
of  delight  empty  themselves  into  Him,  and 
through  Him  flow  down  to  every  believer  on 
earth.  As  He  loveth  Christ,  so  He  loveth  us; 
while  He  loveth  Jesus,  He  will  love  us ;  for 
Christ  and  we  are  one.  What  is  done  to  us, 
is  done  to  Him,  and  what  is  done  to,  or  bestow- 
ed upon  Him,  as  man  and  Mediator,  is  done  to 
and  bestowed  upon  us.  Oh,  glorious  mystery 
of  infinite  and  eternal  love  !  Oh,  direct  my 
heart  into  this  love  of  God  ! 


0  love  of  unexampled  kind  ! 

That  leaves  all  thought  so  far  behind ; 

Where  length,  and  breadth,  and  depth,  and  height, 

Are  lost  to  my  astonished  sight : 

Lord,  shed  abroad  that  love  of  Thine 

In  this  poor  sinful  heart  of  mine. 

9i 


MARCH    31. 


I  will  be  with  him  in  trouble.     Ps.  xci.  15. 

Sin  is  the  parent  of  trouble ;  all  sorrow  orio-i- 
nated  in  departing  from  God.  It  is  generally 
occasioned  by  transgression,  or  sent  as  a  pre- 
ventative to  a  greater  evil  ;  it  may  be  occa- 
sioned by  good,  for  saints  are  sometimes  per- 
secuted for  righteousness'  sake.  It  is  intended 
to  correct,  improve,  and  to  bring  us  near  to 
God.  Whatever  may  be  our  trouble,  if  we  are 
the  Lord's,  He  is  with  us ;  and  with  us  for  the 
most  gracious  purposes.  He  fixes  the  period  of 
our  troubles,  nor  can  they  continue  longer  than 
He  sees  needful.  He  regulates  the  heat  of  the 
furnace,  nor  will  He  suffer  us  to  be  tried  more 
than  we  are  able  to  bear.  He  sanctifies  our 
troubles,  and  causes  them  to  work  our  good. 
He  delivers  out  of  trouble,  when  the  purposes 
of  His  love  are  accomplished.  In  every  trouble, 
remember,  God  is  now  especially  present ;  He 
is  with  you  to  hear  your  prayer,  increase  your 
strength,  direct  your  way,  and  make  you  a  con- 
queror. His  grace  is  sufficient;  His  presence 
is  sure ;  your  deliverance  in  His  time  and  way 
is  certain.  Therefore,  "wait  on  the  Lord,  be 
of  good  courage  ;  He  will  strengthen  y©ur  heart ; 
wait,  I  say,  on  the  Lord." 


He  that  hath  made  his  refuge  God, 
Shall  find  a  most  secure  abode  ; 
Shall  walk  all  day  beneath  His  shade. 
And  there  at  night  shall  rest  his  head. 


95 


-J 


APRIL    I. 
The  Lord  is  my  shepherd.     Ps.  xxiii.  1. 

Then  David  was  one  of  the  Lord's  sheep.  All 
His  sheep  know  him,  love  Him,  and  follow  Him. 
They  possess  His  disposition ;  He  was  meek 
and  lowly  in  heart.  Are  you  a  sheep  of  Christ  ? 
Are  you  looking  to,  following  of,  and  rejoicing 
in  your  Shepherd  ?  If  so,  it  is  His  province  to 
lead  you,  feed  you,  protect  you,  and  heal  you. 
Your  person,  life,  health,  comforts,  and  safety, 
are  committed  to  His  care.  He  is  the  good 
shepherd,  He  laid  down  his  life  for  His  sheep ; 
He  searches  and  seeks  out  His  sheep  wherever 
they  have  been  scattered  ;  He  feeds  His  flock  ; 
He  gathereth  the  lambs  with  his  arms,  and  car- 
rieth  them  in  His  bosom.  He  loved  His  sheep 
more  than  his  own  life ;  He  cares  for  His  sheep 
more  than  for  all  the  world  beside.  He  feeds 
them  in  the  most  suitable  pasture,  and  leads 
them  in  the  paths  of  righteousness  for  His 
name's  sake.  Oh,  view  Jesus  as  your  Shepherd, 
expect  Him  to  lead  you,  feed  you,  fold  you, 
and  present  you  to  His  Father  with  exceeding 
joy.  Cleave  to  Him ;  let  nothing  tempt  you  to 
leave  His  feet,  His  flock,  or  His  fold.  He  will 
never  lea\fe  you,  nor  forsake  you. 

Jehovali  is  my  Shepherd's  name, 
Then  what  have  I,  tho'  weak,  to  fear  ? 
My  sin  and  folly  I  proclaim, 
If  I  despond  while  He  is  near  : 
In  every  danger  He  is  nigh, 
And  will  my  every  want  supply. 
96 


APRIL    2. 
I  shall  not  want.     Psalm  xxiii.  1. 

This  was  David's  conclusion,  from  the  belief 
that  the  Lord  was  his  shepherd.  If  we  are  the 
sheep  of  Christ,  He  will  supply  us.  He  has 
all  things  in  His  possession,  the  silver  and  the 
gold  are  His,  and  the  cattle  upon  a  thousand, 
hills.  His  private  maric  is  upon  all.  All  spir- 
itual blessings  are  in  His  possession  also  ;  and 
He  has  a  kind,  tender,  and  liberal  heart.  Pie 
will  give.  He  has  engaged  to  supply,  conduct, 
protect,  and  present  His  flock  upon  mount 
Zion.  He  has  promised  to  be  to  us,  do  for  us, 
and  bestow  upon  us,  all  that  our  circumstances 
require.  His  conduct  towards  His  flock  in  old 
times  is  a  sufficient  guarantee  ;  when  ever  were 
the  righteous  forsaken  ;  or  His  sheep  left 
neglected  and  unheeded  ?  Did  David  ever 
want  ?  Few  passed  through  greater  changes, 
or  severer  trials  ;  yet  upon  his  dying  bed  he 
tells  us,  he  had  all  his  desire.  If  you  belong  to 
Christ,  you  may  safely  conclude,  "I  shall  not 
WANT."  Your  fears  are  follies  ;  yonr  anxieties 
are  groundless;  your  forebodings  are  sinful  ;  you 
have  a  God  to  provide  for  you,  and  you  ought 
to  rejoice.  "  My  God,"  says  the  Apostle, 
"  shall  supply  all  your  needs,  according  to  His 
glorious  riches." 

What  want  shall  not  our  God  supply, 

From  His  reduiKlaiit  stores  ? 
What  streams  of  mercy  from  on  high 

An  a!  ra  almij^hty  pours  ! 

97 


APRIL   3. 

I  flee  unto  thee  to  hide  me.     Ps.  cxliii.  9. 

This  implies  danger — the  Christian  may  be 
in  danger,  from  sin,  self,  foes.  Fear — his  fears 
may  be  groundless,  but  they  are  often  very 
painful.  Inability  —  to  defend  himself,  or 
overcome  his  opposers.  Foresight — he  sees 
the  storm  in  the  distance,  and  looks  out  for  the 
covert.  Prudence — he  hides  before  the  storm, 
ere  the  enemy  comes  upon  him.  A  laudable 
CONCERN  for  safety  and  comfort.  The  believer, 
if  wise,  will  at  all  times  flee  to  Jehovah.  Jacob 
flies  to  Laban  :  the  manslayer  to  the  refuge  ;  the 
bird  to  his  mountain ;  and  the  Christian  to 
his  God.  Asa  may  seek  to  physicians  ;  Ephraim 
to  King  Jareb  ;  and  Saul  to  the  witch  ;  but  the 
believer  looks  to  his  God.  The  Lord  receives, 
befriends,  and  secures.  Let  us  flee  to  Him  by 
prayer,  in  faith,  with  hope,  for  salvation  :  and 
He  will  receive  us,  shelter  us,  and  be  our  refuge 
and  strength.  Flee  from  sin,  from  self,  from  the 
world  ;  but  flee  to  Jesus.  His  heart  is  ever  to- 
ward us,  His  ear  is  open  to  us,  and  His  hand  is 
ready  to  help,  protect,  and  deliver  us.  His 
throne  is  our  asylum.  His  promise  our  comfort, 
and  His  omnipotence  our  guard. 

Happy  soul,  that,  free  from  harms, 
Rests  within  his  shepherd's  arms  ! 
Who  his  quiet  shall  molest  ? 
Who  shall  violate  his  rest  ? 
He  who  found  the  wandering  sheep, 
Loves,  and  still  delights  to  keep. 


APRIL    4. 
It  is  I,  he  not  afraid.    Jolin  vi.  20. 

The  fears  of  the  Christian  are  a  dishonor  to 
his  Lord,  a  denial  of  his  creed,  and  a  fruitful 
source  of  distress  to  his  own  soul.  All  things 
are  of  God,  He  worketh  all  things  after  the 
counsel  of  His  own  will,  and  in  every  event  He 
says  to  us,  "  It  is  I,  be  not  afraid."  If  friends 
turn  to  foes  and  distress  us,  if  death  enters  our 
dwellings  and  bereaves  us,  if  sickness  lays  us 
aside  and  fills  us  with  pain.  He  says,  "It  is  I, 
be  not  afraid."  If  losses,  crosses,  and  sore  trials 
come  upon  us,  and  discourage,  distress,  and  per- 
plex us.  He  says,  "  It  is  I,  be  not  afraid."  If 
death  approaches  and  calls  upon  us  to  leave  the 
body,  and  close  our  eyes  upon  our  beloved  rela- 
tions, friends,  and  connections.  He  says,  "It  is 
I,  be  not  afraid."  Should  we  hear  the  pillars 
of  heaven  crack,  and  feel  the  strong  foundations 
of  the  earth  give  way  ;  should  the  heavens  be 
rolled  up  like  a  scroll,  and  the  great  white  throne 
appear ;  still,  amidst  the  wreck  of  matter  and 
the  crush  of  worlds,  He  cries,  "  Be  not  afraid,  it 
is  I."  Happy  Christian  !  thy  fears  are  ground- 
less, and  thy  brightest  hopes  well  founded. 

Oh,  that  I  might  so  believe, 
Steadfastly  to  Jesus  cleave  ; 
Only  on  his  love  rely. 
Smile  at  the  destroyer  nigh  : 
Free  from  care  and  servile  fear, 
Feel  the  Saviour  always  near. 


99 


APRIL   5. 
Without  Me  ye  can  do  nothing.    John  xv.  5. 

Never  forget  tliat  the  Lord  is  our  righteous- 
ness and  strength.  We  are  not  sufficient  to 
think  rightly  of  ourselves,  but  through  Him  we 
can  do  all  things.  Never  attempt  anything 
without  looking  to  Jesus  for  power.  Let  a 
knowledge  and  constant  s'ense  of  weakness  keep 
you  near  to  Him  ;  sensibly  depending  on  Him ; 
and  ascribing  all  good  unto  Him.  You  cannot, 
He  can.  You  have  destroyed  yourself,  in  Him 
is  your  help  found.  It  is  only  by  union  to  Him, 
and  receiving  from  Him,  that  you  can  glorify 
God,  adorn  your  profession,  enjoy  your  privi- 
leges, and  obey  the  holy  precepts  of  the  gospel. 
Never  presume,  but  come  up  out  of  the  wilder- 
ness, leaning  on  Him,  your  beloved.  Live  as 
one  deeply  sensible  of  your  dependence  upon, 
and  obligation  to,  the  Lord  Jesus.  He  is  the 
strength  of  the  poor,  the  strength  of  the  needy 
in  his  distress ;  and  your  strength  too.  Be- 
loved, Jesus  is  your  life-giving  Head,  the  Foun- 
tain from  which  you  are  to  draw  all  your  supplies, 
and  the  Friend  to  whom  you  are  to  carry  all 
your  cares.  He  will  work  in  you  to  will  and  to 
do  of  His  own  good  pleasure. 


Jesus,  immutably  the  same ! 

Thou  true  and  hving  vine  ! 
Around  thy  all-supporting  stem 

My  feeble  arms  I  twine : 
Thou  art  my  strengtli,  my  life,  my  hope, 
Nor  can  I  sink  with  such  a  prop. 

100 


APRIL   6. 


WortJiy  is  the  Lamb  that  was  shiin.     Rev.  v.  12. 

This  i.-s  an  ascription  of  praise  to  Jesus,  thy 
Jesus,  as  the  sacrifice  for  sin,  the  atonement  of 
the  church,  the  Saviour  of  His  body.  Jesus 
who  died  for  thy  sins  is  worthy  to  receive  power, 
and  riches,  and  wisdom,  and  strength,  and  honor, 
and  glory,  and  blessing.  We  never  can  ascribe 
too  much  to  Jesus.  But  He  is  worthy  also  to 
be  BELIEVED,  in  preference  to  Satan,  unbelief, 
the  world,  or  appearances  ;  to  be  trusted  with 
all,  for  all,  before  all ;  to  be  loved,  more  than 
any  other,  in  opposition  to  any  other  that  would 
rival  Him  :  to  be  obeyed,  though  he  commands 
us  to  cut  off  a  right  hand,  or  pluck  out  a  right 
eye ;  to  be  follov^-ed,  wherever  He  may  lead  us, 
through  evil  report  and  good  report ;  to  be  pre- 
FERRED,  to  ease,  pleasure,  wealth,  health,  to 
anything  and  everything.  Jesus  is  worthy  to 
be  our  example,  our  confidant,  our  king,  and 
our  all.  He  is  worthy  of  all  He  requires,  all 
we  can  give,  all  His  people  have  done  for  Him, 
or  suffered  in  His  cause.  Believe  His  word, 
trust  His  grace,  love  His  name,  obey  His  com- 
mands, and  prefer  Him  before  all  others.  Make 
it  your  daily  business  to  endeavor  to  bring  sin- 
ners to  His  feet ;  He  is  worthy  of  every  effort 
you  can  make. 

Jesus  is  worthy  to  receive 

Honor  and  power  divine  ; 
And  blessings  more  than  we  can  give, 

Be,  Lord,  forever  tliine. 

101 


AmiL   7. 
One  thmg  is  needful.     Luke  x.  42. 

The  things  of  time  are  transient,  the  things 
of  eternity  are  permanent.  The  world  passeth 
away.  The  body  must  die  ;  earthly  connections 
must  be  dissolved ;  but  the  soul  must  live  for- 
ever. The  welfare  of  the  soul  is  the  one  thing 
needful.  If  the  soul  is  in  a  sanctified  and 
healthy  state,  it  will  be  found  at  the  feet  of 
Jesus ;  it  will  relish  His  words  ;  and  enjoy  His 
communications  more  than  the  richest  feast. 
We  shall  be  seeking  to  know  Him,  love  Him, 
believe  Him,  obey  Him,  and  enjoy  Him.  Fel- 
lowship with  Jesus  is  needful  as  an  evidence  of 
interest  in  Him,  and  as  a  source  of  satisfaction 
and  comfort.  He  that  finds  a  home  at  the  feet 
of  Jesus,  will  enjoy  an  eternal  heaven  in  the 
presence  of  Jesus.  Let  not  then  the  many 
trifles  of  time  affect,  distract,  and  bewilder  you  ; 
but  let  the  one  thing  needful  be  the  constant 
object  of  pursuit  and  desire.  Live  at  the  feet 
of  Jesus,  and  you  are  safe.  Seek  above  all 
things  to  enjoy  Jesus,  and  you  will  be  happy. 
Aim  in  all  things  to  glorify  Jesus,  and  you  will 
be  holy.  Look  daily  for  the  coming  of  Jesus, 
and  you  will  be  consistent.  O  Jesus  !  manifest 
thyself  to  me  ;  draw  me  to  thy  feet,  and  keep 
me  there ! 

Engage  this  roving,  treacherous  heart 
To  fix  on  Mary's  better  part ; 
To  scorn  the  trifles  of  a  day, 
For  joys  tliat  none  can  take  away. 
102 


APRIL    §. 
He  will  save.     Zejjh.  iiL  17. 

Whom  ? — the  lost,  the  wretched,  the  unworthy. 
Every  applicant,  for  "  Whomsoever  shall  call  on 
the  name  of  the  Lord,  shall  be  saved."  "  Him 
that  Cometh  to  me,  I  will  in  no  avise  cast  out." 
How? — freely,  without  money  and  without  price ; 
fully,  by  His  blood,  power,  and  providence ; 
eternally,  all  who  flee  to  Him  for  refuge,  all  who 
build  on  Hhn  for  pardon,  peace,  and  life ;  shall 
be  saved  with  an  everlasting  salvation,  they  shall 
not  be  ashamed  nor  confounded,  world  without 
end.  Why  ? — because  it  is  His  Father's  will ; 
because  He  delighteth  in  mercy;  because  it  will 
eternally  glorify  His  name.  From  what  ? — 
from  sin,  in  its  guilt,  filth,  and  power ;  from  the 
present  evil  world  ;  from  Satan  ;  from  the  wrath 
of  God;  from  every  evil  work  ;  and  from  all  the 
evil  designs  of  men.  He  has  saved  us,  by  re- 
ceiving grace  for  us  and  dying  in  our  stead.  He 
does  save  us,  by  His  presence,  word,  providence, 
and  the  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost. — He  will 
save  in  every  trouble,  from  every  foe,  even  unto 
the  end.  Look  to  Him  then,  and  to  Him  alone, 
to  deliver,  direct,  relieve,  and  preserve.  He 
says,  "  Look  unto  me,  and  be  ye  saved,  all  yc 
ends  of  the  earth  ;  for  I  am  God,  and  there  is  no 
other." 

Dear  dying  Lamb  !  thy  precious  blood 

Shall  never  lose  its  power, 
Till  all  the  ransomed  church  of  God 

Be  saved,  to  sin  no  more. 

103 


APRIL    9. 
Lord,  increase  our  faith.     Luke  xvii.  5. 

The  believer  is  as  his  faith  is.  If  faith  is  weak, 
he  is  fearful,  fretful,  and  troubled  ;  if  faith  is 
strong  and  rightly  placed,  he  is  courageous, 
active,  and  happy.  Faith  comes  from  Jesus, 
He  is  its  author ;  it  leads  to  Jesus,  He  is  its 
object.  Faith  is  like  a  grain  of  mustard-seed, 
it  grows  and  increases  ;  but  Jesus  alone  can  in- 
crease our  faith.  Let  us  apply  to  Him  this 
morning,  and  let  this  be  our  prayer,  "  Lord, 
INCREASE  MY  FAITH."  Strong  faith  will  believe 
without  feeling,  yea,  against  feelings  or  appear- 
ances. It  will  trust  God  where  it  cannot  trace 
Him ;  it  assures  the  soul  that  what  He  has 
promised  He  is  able  to  perform,  and  will  assur- 
edly do  so.  Great  faith  will  have  great  trials ; 
for  God  never  gives  faith  without  trying  it;  and 
the  heat  of  the  furnace  is  in  proportion  to  the 
strength  of  our  faith.  Little  faith  lays  hold  on 
Christ,  and  brings  salvation;  strong  faith  re- 
ceives much  and  often  from  Christ,  and  brings 
great  consolation.  Go  to  Jesus  with  the  faith 
thou  hast,  and  plead  with  him  for  the  faith 
He  requires.  He  gives  freely  to  every  impor- 
tunate pleader  ;  and  He  will  assuredly  give  to 
thee. 

O  Jesus,  no\v  thyself  impart, 
And  fix  thy  presence  in  my  heart, 

Give  strong  and  living  faith  ! 
Then  will  I  throw  off  every  load, 
And  walk  delightfully  with  God, 
Observing  all  He  saith. 
104 


APRIL    10. 

Tie  shall  glorify  me.    John  xvi.  14. 

If  Jesus  is  to  be  glorified,  our  pride  must  be 
mortified,  and  our  spirits  humbled.  It  is  the 
Spirit's  oifice  and  work  to  glorify  Jesus  ;  this 
He  does,  by  discovering  to  us  our  wretched  and 
ruined  state,  and  leading  us  to  Him  to  crave 
salvation  as  a  favor  at  His  hands.  By  daily 
emptying  us  and  leading  us  to  Him  for  all  we 
need.  By  giving  us  to  see,  that  all  God  has 
created  cannot  satisfy  an  immortal  spirit  for  one 
m.oment  of  time,  but  that  there  is  enough  in 
Jesus  to  satisfy  it  throughout  eternity.  Jesus 
is  glorified  when  we  mourn  over  sin,  and  wash 
in  the  fountain  of  His  blood  ;  when  we  renounce 
our  own  doings  and  feelings,  and  desire  to  be 
found  in  His  righteousness  alone ;  when  we  re- 
fuse to  look  to  any  other  quarter  for  help,  relief, 
or  comfort,  but  to  Him;  when  His  dear  name 
fills  all  our  songs  ;  and  when  we  long  to  have  a 
crown  to  cast  at  His  feet,  and  a  harp  that  will 
worthily  sound  forth  His  praise.  "  He  shall 
glorify  Me."  This  decrees  the  death  of  pride, 
self,  and  creature  excellence.  Beloved,  whatso- 
ever you  do  in  word  or  deed,  do  all  to  the  glory 
of  Jesus  ;  He  is  the  Lord  of  all. 


Lord,  draw  my  heart  from  earth  away, 
And  make  it  only  know  thy  call ; 
Speak  to  my  inmost  soul,  and  say, 
"  I  am  thy  Saviour,  God,  thine  all !'' 
Oh,  dwell  in  me,  and  fill  my  soul, 
And  all  my  powers  by  thine  control. 

105 


APRIL  11. 

A7id  she  u'cnt  to  inquire  of  the  Lord. 
Gen.  XXV.  22. 

Excellent  example!  Let  us  imitate  Rebek- 
ah,  for  God  commands  us  to  do  so.  In  all  thy 
ways,  acknowledge  Him,  and  He  shall  direct 
thy  steps.  Commit  thy  way  unto  the  Lord, 
trust  also  in  Him,  and  He  shall  bring  it  to 
pass.  Are  you  in  trouble  ?  Go  and  inquire  of 
the  Lord — What  is  the  cause?  Unite  with 
holy  Job  in  praying,  "  Show  me  wherefore  thou 
contendest  with  me."  Are  you  in  perplexity  ? 
Go  and  inquire, — ^What  is  the  design  ?  He 
will  instruct  thee  and  teach  thee  in  the  way 
thou  shouldest  go.  He  will  guide  thee  with  His 
eye.  Go  in  an  inquiring  spirit.  Go  persuadeil, 
whatever  thy  circumstances  or  trials  may  be, 
that  as  a  believer  in  Jesus,  wrath  and  curse  can 
have  nothing  to  do  with  thee  ;  they  were  ex- 
hausted when  Jesus  died  in  thy  stead.  Be 
assured  that  whatever  comes  from  God  is  a 
blessing,  a  benefit,  a  favor,  a  proof  of  love  ;  how- 
ever painful,  perplexing,  or  distressing  it  may  be. 
Do  not  reason,  but  believe  in  the  promise  of 
thy  God;  do  not  despond,  grieve,  or  complain; 
but  go  and  inquire  of  the  Lord  ;  at  His 
throne,  of  His  word.  He  says,  "I  will  be  in- 
quired of." 

Prayer  was  appointed  to  convey 
The  blessings  God  designs  to  give ; 
Long  as  they  live  should  Christians  pray, 
For  only  while  they  pray  they  live. 
106 


APRIL    12. 

He  cannot  deny  Himself.     2  Tim.  ii.  13. 

God  has  opened  His  heart  to  ns  in  His  word. 
He  has  told  us  all  His  mind.  He  intends  every 
word  He  has  spoken,  and  will  fulfil  every  prom- 
ise He  has  made.  He  cannot  deny  Himself 
or  falsify  His  word ;  He  can  have  no  tempta- 
tion to  do  so.  Man  may  be  fickle,  he  is  but  a 
bruised  reed ;  Jehovah  is  always  the  same,  He 
is  the  rock  of  ages.  He  will  have  compassion 
on  the  miserable,  who  seek  His  face;  and 
show  mercy  to  all  who  plead  with  Him  in 
Jesus'  name.  He  cannot  cast  out  a  coming  sin- 
ner, or  refuse  to  receive  a  confessing  backslider. 
He  cannot  turn  a  deaf  ear  to  our  cries,  or 
refuse  to  deliver  us  when  we  call  on  His  name. 
He  will  take  His  own  time,  but  will  never 
dishonor  His  faithful  word.  He  will  be  rigid- 
ly faithful,  both  to  His  threatenings  and  prom- 
ises. Let  us  take  courage  and  trust  in  Him ; 
we  have  His  word,  it  is  true  from  the  begin- 
ning ;  we  have  this  assurance,  that  He  cannot 
DENY  Himself.  Let  us  then  stay  ourselves  on 
the  word  of  our  God ;  let  us  trust  Him  though 
the  night  be  dark  and  the  burden  be  heavy. 
He  exhorts,  "  Trust  ye  in  Jehovah  forever, 
for  in  Jah,  Jehovah,  there  is  everlasting 
strength." 

God  is  love,  and  will  not  leave  you, 
When  you  most  his  kindness  need  ; 

God  is  true — nor  can  deceive  yon, — 
Though  your  faith  be  weak  indeed. 

107 


APRIL   13. 

W/ti/  are  ye  tro^tbled?     Luke  xxiv.  38. 

Consider  what  Jesus  has  done  for  you,  prom- 
ised to  you,  and  is  gone  to  prepare  for  you. 
Consider  what  He  is  to  you,  your  loving  Bride- 
groom, faithful  Friend,  and  gracious  Saviour. 
What  troubles  you  ?  Is  it  sin  ? — He  will  ])ardon, 
subdue,  and  destroy  it.  The  world  ? — He  has 
overcome  it,  redeemed  you  from  it,  and  is  lead- 
ing you  through  it,  Satan  ? — he  is  conquered, 
condemned,  and  will  soon  be  imprisoned.  The 
cares  and  troubles  of  life? — Jesus  says,  "Bring 
them  to  Me  by  prayer,  cast  them  on  Me  in 
faith,  leave  them  with  Me  j  I  know  what  you 
want,  I  have  provided  of  my  goodness,  I  will 
supply  all  your  needs ;  your  bread  shall  be 
given  you,  and  your  water  shall  be  sure.  I 
will  make  a  way  in  the  wilderness  of  trouble, 
and  a  path  in  the  desert  of  perplexity.  Let 
not  your  hearts  be  troubled,  ye  believe  in 
God,  believe  also  in  Me.  Try  Me.  Trust  Me. 
In  all  your  ways  acknowledge  Me,  and  I  will 
direct  your  paths.  I  have  wisdom,  power,  and 
love ;  and  all  that  I  have  is  yours  :  to  be  em- 
ployed for  your  good."  Commit  thy  way  unto 
the  Lord,  trust  also  in  Him,  and  He  will  bring 
it  to  pass. 

Yield  to  tlic  Lord,  ■with  simple  heart, 
All  that  thou  hast,  and  all  thou  art ; 
Kenounce  all  strength,  but  strength  divine, 
And  peace  shall  bu  forever  thine  : 
Behold  the  path  the  saints  have  trod. 
The  path  which  led  them  home  to  God. 
108 


APRIL    14. 
Ye  are  complete  in  Him.     Col.  ii.  10. 

Look  not  too  much  at  thyself,  there  is  nothing 
but  vanity,  weakness,  sin,  and  misery  there ; 
but  thy  God  hath  united  thee  to  His  beloved 
Son.  Jesus  is  one  with  thee,  and  all  that  He 
has  is  thine.  Thou  art  unholy,  but  He  is  made 
unto  thee  sanctification ;  and  He  will  sanctify 
thee  wholly,  body,  soul,  and  spirit.  Thou  art 
foolish,  but  He  is  made  unto  thee  wisdom ;  and 
He  will  make  thee  wise  unto  salvation.  Thou 
art  weak,  but  he  is  thy  strength ;  and  thou 
canst  do  all  things  through  His  strengthening 
thee.  Thou  art  unrighteous  ;  but  He  is  made 
unto  thee  righteousness ;  and  thou  art  not  only 
righteous,  but  the  righteousness  of  God  in  Him. 
Thou  art  lost,  but  He  is  made  unto  thee  re- 
demption ;  He  has  redeemed  thee  from  the  curse 
of  God,  and  from  the  present  evil  world,  and  He 
will  redeem  thee  from  death.  In  thyself  thou 
art  not  only  incomplete,  but  wretched,  misera- 
ble, poor,  blind,  and  naked ;  but  in  Jesus  thou 
art  holy,  wise,  strong,  righteous,  rich,  happy ; 
in  a  word,  complete.  View  thyself,  then,  at 
least  occasionally,  as  complete  in  Christ,  who 
is  the  head  of  all  principality  and  power. 


still  onward  urge  your  heavenly  way, 
Dependant  on  Him  day  by  day, 

His  presence  still  entreat ; 
His  precious  name  forever  bless, 
Your  glory,  strength,  and  righteousness, 

In  Him  you  are  complete. 

109 


APRIL    15. 
Set  your  affections  on  things  above.     Col.  iii.  2. 

We  are  apt  to  be  much  affected  by  earthly- 
things,  but  our  affections  should  be  permanent- 
ly fixed  on  things  above.  Let  us  lift  up  our 
eyes  and  hearts  to  heaven  this  morning ;  there 
are  the  proper  objects  of  our  love,  desire,  and 
esteem.  There  is  Jehovah  our  heavenly  Father, 
dwelling  in  an  approachable  light.  There  is  Je- 
sus, our  dear  and  adorable  Saviour,  exalted,  dig- 
nified, and  glorified  at  the  right  hand  of  the 
Father.  There  is  the  Holy  Spirit,  our  divine, 
gracious,  and  condescending  Comforter.  There 
the  love,  favor,  and  presence  of  God  are  fully 
enjoyed.  There  peace,  rest,  and  happiness  are 
eternally  realized.  There  is  the  crown  of  right- 
eousness, the  throne  of  glory,  and  the  rivers  of 
pleasure,  which  our  God  has  promised,  and  set 
before  us.  There  are  our  brethren  who  have 
gone  home  before  us,  and  there  our  affections 
should  be.  What  is  earth  ?  Whatever  it  is, 
we  are  leaving  it.  What  is  time  ?  We  shall 
soon  have  done  with  it.  Oh,  let  us  then  set 
OUR  affections  on  things  above,  and  not  on 
things  on  the  earth. 

Why  should  my  lieait  descend  so  low, 
To  brood  on  earth — a  world  of  woe, 
While  heaven,  where  endless  pleasures  roll, 
Waits  to  entrance  my  new-born  soul  ? 
Saviour  !  let  thine  attractions  be 
But  felt  in  all  their  force  by  me ; 
Then  shall  I  mount  on  wings  of  love, 
And  feast  my  soul  on  things  above. 
110 


APRIL   16. 


He  xnll  subdue  our  iniquities.     Micali  viL  19. 

Sin  must  not  only  be  pardoned,  but  corruption 
must  bo  subdued  ;  the  one  is  freely  promised  as 
well  as  the  other.  The  grace  of  God  pardons, 
the  power  of  God  subdues ;  but  grace  and 
power  always  go  together  in  the  salvation  of  a 
sinner.  Pardon  comes  first,  and  sanctification 
follows.  Light  shining  upon  the  understanding, 
discovers  corruption  working  in  the  soul ;  holi- 
ness seated  in  the  heart,  produces  hatred  and 
opposition  to  it ;  prayer  ascends  to  God  for  de- 
liverance from  it,  and  power  descends  and  sub- 
dues it.  But  like  fire  apparently  quenched,  it 
will  break  out  again  and  again ;  like  rebels  in  a 
state,  it  will  seize  every  opportunity  of  disturb- 
ing the  peace  and  happiness  of  the  soul.  Hear, 
then,  what  the  Lord  says  to  you  this  morning, 
"  I  WILL  SUBDUE  YOUR  INIQUITIES."  Carry  your 
complaint  to  His  throne,  plead  His  faithful  word, 
and  .expect  His  promised  power  to  subdue  your 
iniquities.  Sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over 
you,  for  you  are  not  under  the  law,  but  under 
grace.  Grace  reigns,  and  will  conquer  every 
rival  lust. 

Jesus,  thy  boundless  love  to  me 
No  thought  can  reach,  no  tongue  declare ; 
0  knit  my  thankful  heart  to  thee. 
And  reign  without  a  rival  there. 
0  grant  that  nothing  in  my  soul 
May  dwell,  but  thy  pure  love  alone  : 
O  may  thy  love  possess  me  whole. 
My  joy,  my  treasure,  and  my  crown. 

Ill 


APRIL    17. 

The  forerunner  is  for  us  ciitered. 
Heb.  vi.  20. 

Whatever  Jesus  did  was  for  His  people.  He 
is  gone  into  heaven  as  our  forerunner ;  as  the 
PIONEER  goes  before  the  army  to  remove  obsta- 
cles, clear  the  road,  and  render  the  march  more 
easy,  so  did  Jesus  go  before  us.  As  an  inter- 
ested and  kind  Friend,  He  shows  the  practica- 
bility of  the  way ;  as  a  wise  Guide,  He  marks 
out  the  road  for  us ;  as  our  Example,  He  is 
gone  before,  and  says  to  us,  "  follow  me."  We 
have  now  an  Advocate  with  the  Father,  a  Hus- 
band preparing  our  mansions,  a  Saviour  waiting 
to  receive  us.  We  have  one  in  heaven  to  whom 
in  our  addresses  to  His  throne  we  can  say, 
"  Lord,  thou  knowest  from  Thy  own  experience 
what  I  feel  in  my  present  situation,  for  Thou 
wast  once  tried  in  all  points  like  as  I  am." 
We  have  one  in  heaven  who  will  welcome  us 
home,  and  who  when  He  sees  us  enter  will  be 
glad  in  his  heart.  We  know  Him  below,  and 
we  shall  know,  and  enjoy,  and  love  Him  forever 
above.  He  is  gone  into  heaven  for  us,  nor  shall 
we  know  until  we  arrive  there,  how  much  we 
are  indebted  to  His  intercession  and  pleading 
above.  O  my  soul,  look  at  Jesus  as  thy  Fore- 
runner, and  follow  in  His  steps  ! 

Before  His  heavenly  Father's  face, 
For  every  saint  He  intercedes  : 
For  mercy  and  abounding  grace 
There  Jesus,  our  Forerunner,  pleads. 
112 


APRIL    1§. 
Our  sufficiency  is  of  God.     2  Cor.  iii  5. 

Let  us  think  of  this,  whenever  we  are  cast 
down  on  account  of  our  weakness,  or  the  diffi- 
culties we  meet  with  in  our  way.  We  are  weak, 
but  Jesus  is  strong ;  and  His  strength  is  made 
perfect  in  our  weakness.  He  has  given  us  His 
word,  that  He  will  work  in  us  to  will  and  to  do, 
of  His  own  good  pleasure.  He  speaks  and  it 
is  done.  The. word  of  the  Lord  knows  no  ob- 
stacles or  difficulties ;  all  things  must  obey 
Him.  When  He  sent  Moses  to  Pharaoh,  He 
said,  "  Certainly  I  will  be  with  thee  :"  and  the 
Lord's  presence  was  his  strength.  He  acts 
just  so  with  us  :  His  fulness  is  our  sufficiency  ; 
it  is  opened  to  us  in  Jesus,  and  we  receive 
from  it  according  to  our  wants,  weakness,  and 
faith.  "Through  God,"  said  David,  "I  shall 
do  valiantly."  "  I  can  do  all  things,"  said  Paul, 
"  through  Christ  strenaftheninor  me."  Look 
not  then  at  your  own  emptiness,  or  weakness ; 
but  look  at  Nvhat^  God  is  to  His  people,  and 
what  He  has  promised  to  give  them,  and  sing, 
"our  sufficiency  is  of  God."  "God  is  our 
refuge  and  strength  ;  and  as  our  days  so  shall 
our  strength  be."  "  His  grace  is  sufficient  for 
us;  His  strength  is  made  perfect  in  weak- 
ness." 

When  we  cannot  see  our  way, 
We  should  trust,  and  still  obey ; 
He  who  bids  us  forward  go. 
Will  instruct  the  way  to  know. 

113 


APRIL   19. 

Qidchcii  thou  me  in  tlitj  icay.     Psalm  cxix.  37. 

What  poor,  dull,  lifeless  creatures  we  often 
feel  ourselves  to  be  ;  and  how  needful  is  this 
prayer.  It  is  our  duty  to  run  in  the  way  of 
God's  commandments ;  it  is  our  misery  that 
through  sin,  weakness,  and  temptation,  we 
scarcely  creep.  We  are  dependant  upon  the 
Spirit  for  quickening.  He  only  can  strengthen, 
animate  and  enliven  us.  Let  us  sow  unto  the 
Spirit  this  morning.  He  is  gracious,  and  a 
grace-giving  Spirit.  He  delights  to  exalt  and 
honor  Jesus.  Let  us  therefore  beseech  Him  in 
Jesus'  name,  for  His  sake,  that  we  inay  bring 
honor  unto  His  cause,  to  quicken  our  souls.  Let 
us  pray  Him  to  bring  us  near  to  God  ;  for  the 
nearer  to  God  the  happier,  and  holier,  and  live- 
lier, we  shall  be.  Let  us  ask  Him  to  shed 
abroad  the  love  of  Jesus  in  our  hearts ;  for  the 
love  of  Christ  will  make  us  live  well,  bear  the 
cross  well,  perform  duties  well,  and  die  well. 
The  command  furnishes  us  with  a  rule,  and  the 
promise  finds  us  strength  ;  but  it  is  only  the  Spirit 
that  can  put  us  in  possession  of  the  latter,  and 
without  that  we  cannot  attend  to  the  former,  in 
a  gospel  spirit.  The  presence  of  Jesus,  and  the 
communications  of  His  grace,  are  daily  neces- 
sary to  keep  us  lively,  devoted,  and  working  for 
God. 

I  need  the  influence  of  Thy  grace 

To  speed  me  in  Thy  way, 
Lest  I  should  loiter  in  my  race, 

Or  turn  my  feet  astray. 
114 


APRIL   2  0. 
Christ  hath  made  us  free.     Gal.  v.  1. 

We  were  once  the  slaves  of  sin,  Satan,  and  the 
world  ;  we  were  under  the  law  as  a  covenant  of 
life;  but  Jesus  has  made  us  free.  We  are  now 
delivered  from  the  law,  and  are  under  grace.  We 
are  dead  to  sin,  and  are  justified  from  it.  We 
are  delivered  from  Satan,  and  are  at  war  with 
Him.  We  overcome  the  world,  and  are  hastening 
out  of  it.  We  are  at  liberty  to  serve  God,  and 
walk  with  Him  in  friendship  and  holy  love. 
The  price  of  our  freedom  was  the  life  and  death 
of  Jesus ;  the  efficient  cause  of  our  freedom 
was  the  power  and  operation  of  the  Holj^  Spirit ; 
the  grand  moving  cause,  was  the  infinite  and 
everlasting  love  of  God  our  Father  ;  the  instru- 
ment by  which  we  are  made  acquainted  with 
our  freedom,  is  the  holy  gospel ;  the  grace  which 
puts  us  in  possession  of  our  freedom  is  faith  ; 
and  the  end  of  our  freedom  is,  that  we  may 
serve  God  in  righteousness  and  holiness  all  the 
days  of  our  life,  and  then  be  glorified  with  Him 
forever.  We  are  freed  from  sin,  that  we  may 
be  holy  ;  and  are  introduced  to  and  accepted  of 
God,  that  we  may  be  happy.  Let  us  stand  fast 
in  the  liberty  wherewith  Christ  hath  made  us 
free. 

Sweet  is  the  freedom  Christ  bestows, 
With  which  He  makes  His  people  free  ; 
A  liberty  no  mortal  knows, 
Till  they  His  greatsalv.ition  see  : 
Freedom  from  wants,  an  1  fears,  and  cares, 
From  worldly  \\iiU,  iv\  \  d.mjarous  snares. 

ll.T 


ATRIL    21. 
Wafk  humbly  with  thy  God.     Micali  vi.  8. 

PiuDR  is  one  of  our  greatest  evils  ;  to  indulge  it 
is  to  nourish  a  serpent  in  the  bosom.  The  grace 
of  God  always  humbles  us  ;  and  it  is  only  as  we 
are  humble  that  we  can  be  happy.  God  con- 
descends to  walk  with  the  humble  man,  but  He 
keeps  the  proud  at  a  distance.  Consider  what 
you  were  by  nature,  what  now  lurks  in  your 
heart,  what  you  would  have  been  but  for  the 
grace  of  God,  and  be  humble.  All  you  have  is 
the  gift  of  free  grace  ;  all  you  do  that  is  good,  is 
the  effect  of  God's  working  in  you.  "What  have 
you  to*be  proud  of?  What  reason  to  boast? 
Oh,  lie  low  in  the  dust  of  self-abasement ;  cher- 
ish humbling  thoughts  of  yourself;  admire  the 
mercy,  condescension,  and  infinite  compassion  of 
God  in  noticing  so  vile,  so  unworthy  a  worm  ! 
Study  the  character  and  conduct  of  the  humble 
Jesus,  learn  of  Him,  and  endeavor  to  walk  as 
He  also  walked.  Serve  the  Lord  in  all  humility 
of  mind.  But  beware  of  spurious  humility ; 
that  is  not  humility  which  rests  contented  with- 
out seeking  for  the  utmost  God  has  promised, 
or  aiming  at  the  highest  duties  God  has  com- 
manded. 


By  faith  in  Christ  I  walk  with  God, 
With  heaven,  my  journey's  end,  in  view ; 
Supported  by  His  staff  and  rod. 
My  road  is  safe  and  pleasant  too  : 
Though  earth  and  Hell  my  course  withstand, 
Jeuovaii  guards  me  by  His  hand. 
116 


APRIL   22. 

I  will  surely  do  thee  good.     Gen.  xxxii.  12. 

Though  this  promise  was  given  to  Jacob,  it 
was  not  confined  to  him,  but  is  intended  for 
all  his  spiritual  seed.  It  is  thus  God  speaks  to 
us  this  morning.  How  gracious !  We  know 
not  what  a  day  may  bring  forth,  but  we  know 
our  God,  who  superintends  every  event,  will  do 
us  good.  We  may  mistake  as  to  what  will  be 
for  our  good,  but  He  is  infinite  in  wisdom  and 
goodness,  and  therefore  cannot.  We  may  look 
at  afflictions,  losses,  and  crosses,  and  cry  out, 
"  All  these  things  are  against  me !"  But  read 
the  history  of  David,  what  a  train  of  troubles 
attended  him  :  hear  his  acknowledgment.  "  It 
is  GOOD  for  me  that  I  have  been  afflicted."  Thy 
God  will  do  thee  good,  therefore  He  will  try 
thee,  sift  thee,  humble  thee,  and  prove  thee. 
He  will  give  thee  medicine  as  well  as  food.  He 
will  consider  nothing  too  expensive,  or  too  pain- 
ful, if  necessary  for  thy  soul's  welfare.  Look  at 
your  trials  and  say,  "  This  also  shall  turn  to  my 
salvation."  Look  on  the  past  and  acknowledge, 
"  Goodness  and  mercy  have  followed  me  all  the 
days  of  my  life."  Look  to  the  future  and  re- 
joice, "  The  Lord  will  give  that  which  is  good." 
Look  in  every  direction,  and  say,  "  I  will  trust 
and  not  be  afraid." 

I  cannot  doubt  His  bounteous  love, 

So  full,  so  free,  so  kind  ; 
To  His  unerring,  gracious  -\rill, 

Be  every  wish  resigned. 

m 


APRIL   23. 
Have  faith  in  God.     Mark  xi.  22. 

You  have  Ilis  word,  believe  it;  plead  it; 
expect  the  fulfilment  of  it.  Ho  cannot  deceive 
you.  His  ear  is  open  to  you.  Try  Him.  What 
do  you  want  ?  Why  do  you  want  it  ?  If  you 
really  need,  if  your  motives  are  good,  plead  with 
God  for  it ;  expect  Him  to  bestow  it ;  and  re- 
ceive it  as  coming  from  him.  In  every  trial, 
for  all  you  need,  have  faith  in  God.  He  will 
be  gracious  unto  you.  He  is  ever  with  you. 
He  is  ready  to  help  you.  He  rejoices  over  you 
to  do  you  good.  His  word  is  true  from  the 
beginning.  He  is  the  faithful  God.  He  kecp- 
eth  covenant  and  mercy.  Believe  in  God  for 
all  your  circumstances  require.  Patiently  wait 
His  time  for  your  supplies.  Never  give  over 
praying  or  expecting  because  He  delays ;  never 
doubt  Him,  but  trust  in  Him  with  all  thy 
heart.  He  is  a  God  :  He  is  thy  God  :  He  is 
able  to  do  exceeding  abundantly  above  all  that 
we  can  ask  or  think.  This  is  thy  direction — 
thy  duty — thy  privilege  :  have  faith  in  God. 
Walk  with  God.  Talk  with  God.  Expect 
from  God.  Use  all  for  God.  Be  entirely  de- 
voted to  God.  "  Casting  all  your  cares  upon 
Him,  for  He  careth  for  you."  "  Therefore  will 
I  look  unto  the  Lord." 


Begone,  unbelief!  my  Saviour  is  near, 
And  for  my  relief  will  surely  appear : 

By  prayer  let  me  wrestle,  and  He  will  perform ; 
With  Christ  in  tlie  vessel,  I  smile  at  the  storm. 
118 


APRIL   24. 
lam  the  bread  of  life.     John  vi.  35. 

Jesus  proposeth  Himself   to   be   our   daily  sus- 
tenance;— we  need   bread   for  the   soul  as  well 
as  the  body.     Iq  Jesus  is  all  we  need  to  refresh, 
strengthen,   and   satisfy  us;  but    He    must    be 
received  by  faith.     He  must  be  daily  received. 
Feeding  upon  Jesus  yesterday  will   not  do  for 
to-day.     We  must  go  to  him  afresh  this  morn- 
ing.     He  presents  Himself;  He  says,  "  Eat,  O 
friends ;  yea,  satisfy  yourselves,  O  my  beloved." 
If  the  Holy  Spirit  has  given  us  a  spiritual  ap- 
petite, if  we  are  hungering  after  righteousness, 
Jesus,  and  Jesus  only  will  satisfy  us;  and  we 
are  heartily  welcome  to  live  upon  Him.     Let 
us  set  him  before  us  many  times  in  the  day ; 
let  us  endeavor  to  feed  upon  Him;  and  if  we 
feel  weak,  faint,  or  weary,  let  us  make  use  of 
this  life-giving   bread;    and  let  us   ever  retain 
the  sweet  assurance,    that  if  we  feed  on  Jesus 
we  shall   live   by  Him,  and    have    eternal  life. 
Beloved,  if  you  can  make  a  living  of  anything 
but  Jesus  ;    or  if  Jesus  is  not  enough  in  your 
estimation,   you  are  either  in  a   carnal,   or  an 
unhealthy   state    of  soul.      Jesus   only    is    the 

BREAD    OF    life:    THE     BREAD    AVHICH     CAME     DOWN 
FROM    HEAVEN  ! 

Jesus,  Thou  art  the  living  bread 
By  which  our  needy  souls  are  fed ; 
In  Thee  alone  thy  children  find 
Enough  to  fill  the  empty  mind  : 
Oh,  let  me  evermore  be  fed 
With  tills  divine,  celestial  bread  ! 

119 


AIMUL   2  5. 

Who  makcth  thee  to  differ  from  another? 
1  Cor.  iv.  7. 

There  is  a  wide  difference  between  a  Christian 
and  a  worldling  ;  the  one  is  dead  in  trespasses 
and  sins,  the  other  is  alive  unto  God,  by  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.  He  has  been  quickened  by 
the  Son  of  God,  is  born  of  the  Spirit,  and 
taught  by  the  eternal  Father.  He  is  a  new 
creature,  being  created  anew  in  Christ  Jesus 
unto  good  works,  which  God  had  before  ordain- 
ed that  w^e  should  walk  in  them.  Who  made 
this  difference  ?  You  are  at  once  ready  to 
answer,  if  really  taught  of  God,  "  By  the  grace 
of  God  I  am  what  I  am."  "Of  His  own  will 
begat  He  me  by  the  word  of  truth."  Yes,  it 
was  the  rich,  free,  and  sovereign  grace  of  God, 
and  that  alone,  that  made  you  to  differ.  Grace 
was  given  you  in  Christ  before  the  world 
began ;  and  the  Spirit  was  given  you  in  time, 
that  you  might  know  and  enjoy  the  things 
W'hich  are  freely  given  unto  you  of  God.  Oh, 
beloved,  view  yourself  as  an  infinite  debtor  to 
grace ;  be  humble  before  God  who  has  thus 
made  you  to  differ ;  and  pity,  pray  for,  and 
strive  to  benefit  those  who  are  still  without. 
"  Look  unto  the  rock  whence  you  were  hewn,  and 
to  the  hole  of  the  pit  whence  you  were  digged." 

What  was  there  in  you  that  could  merit  esteem, 

Or  give  the  Creator  delight  ? 
'IVas  "  Even  so,  Father  !"  you  ever  must  sing, 

"  Because  it  seem'd  good  in  Thy  sight." 
120 


APRIL   26. 


Behold  the  Man.     John  xix  5. 


Jesus  is  presented    before    thee   crowned   with 
thorns,  scourged,  with  His  face  so  marred  more 
than    any  man's.      His  blood    is    flowing,   His 
heart  is  breaking,  and  He  is  a  man  of  sorrows. 
Behold  Him',''  then,  for  in  this  man,  under  these 
circumstances,  dwelt  all  the  fulness  of  the  god- 
head bodily  ;   all  the  treasures  of  wisdom  and 
knowledge.      In  Him  the  love  of  God  centered 
and  shone  forth.     He  is  the  only  foundation  of 
His   church's  hopes,   the  only  source  of  eternal 
salvation.       He    is    Jehovah's    first-born,     His 
only-begotten    Son,    the    express    image    of  His 
person.       He    is    thy    Substitute,    Surety,    and 
Redeemer.       He    is    the    holy,    harmless,    and 
undefiled  Lamb  of  God  ;   taking  away  the  sin 
of   the    world.     Behold    Him,  for  He   here  dis- 
closes  the  depth  of  His  love  ;  and  teaches  thee 
patience,    meekness,   and    resignation  under   in- 
sult,   suffering,   and  disgrace.      Oh,   behold    Je- 
sus, and  be  ashamed  of  complaining,  of  repinino-, 
or   indulging  any    revengeful  feelings.      Behold 
and    imitate  !    Behold    and    love  I    Behold    and 
adore ! 

Wounded  head  !  back  ploughed  with  furrows  ! 

Visage  marr'd  !  behold  the  Man ! 
Eyes  how  dim,  how  full  of  sorrows  ! 

Sunk  with  grief,  behold  the  Mau  ! 
Lamb  of  God,  led  to  the  slaughter, 
Melted,  poure<l  out  like  water: 

Should  not  love  my  heai't  inflame, 

Viewing  Thee,  thou  slaughter'd  Lamb  ? 

121 


APRIL   27. 
I  am  He  that  comfortdh  you.     Isa.  li.  12. 

The  Lord's  people  are  often  low  and  despond- 
ing ;  they  do  not  live  up  to  their  privileges  ;  the 
things  of  time  make  too  deep  an  impression, 
because  they  do  not  sufficiently  realize  eternal 
things.  But  Jehovah  is  their  Comforter  :  as 
such  He  presents  Himself  unto  us  this  morn- 
ing. He  is  the  God  of  all  comfort.  He 
comforteth  those  who  are  cast  down.  To  Him 
alone  we  must  look  for  comfort.  Looking  to 
creatures  for  what  God  promises,  dishonors 
Him  ;  and  at  such  times  the  creature  may  well 
ask,  "  Am  I  in  God's  stead  ?"  Our  God  com- 
forts us  by  His  Son,  whom  He  hath  given  to 
us ;  by  the  Spirit,  which  He  pours  out  upon 
us;  by  His  word,  in  which  He  speaks  to  us  ; 
by  His  ordinances,  in  which  He  meets  w^ith  us ; 
and  by  His  providence,  when  He  appears  for  us. 
Let  us  look  unto  God  as  the  author  and  giver 
of  all  comfort,  let  us  plead  with  Him  to  com- 
fort us  according  to  His  word,  and  let  us  be  sus- 
picious of  all  oomfort  which  does  not  come  from 
Him,  and  lead  to  Him.  He  must  be  the  centre 
to  which  we  always  tend,  and  the  circumference 
within  which  we  move. 


Jesus,  all  our  consolations 

Flow  from  Tliee,  tlie  sovereign  good  j 
Love,  and  faith,  and  hope,  arul  patience, 

All  are  purcliased  by  Thy  blood: 
Now  thy  richest  grace  import, 
Sanctify  and  fill  riiy  heart. 
122 


APRIL   2§. 
Though  I  be  noUiing.     2  Cor.  xii.  11. 

Tins  was  Paul's  estimate  of  himself;  less  than 
the  least  of  all  saints,  and  the  chief  of  sinners. 
The  more  we  know  of  ourselves  and  of  Jesus, 
the  more  shall  we  be  humbled  in  the  dust 
before  God  ;  and  the  lower  we  lie  before  God, 
the  happier  and  holier  we  shall  be.  Man  will, 
MUST  be  something;  this  is  his  pride  and  his 
misery :  the  Christian  is  willing  to  be  nothing, 
that  Christ  may  be  all  in  all.  If  we  daily  felt 
that  we  are  nothing,  how  many  mortifications 
we  should  be  spared ;  wha.t  admiring  views 
of  the  grace  of  God  would  fill  and  sanctify  our 
souls.  Apart  from  Christ  we  are  less  than 
nothing,  but  in  Christ  we  are  something.  We 
are  empty,  but  He  fills  us  ;  naked,  but  He 
clothes  us  ;  helpless,  but  He  strengthens  us  ; 
lost,  but  He  finds  us  ;  ruined,  but  He  saves 
us ;  poor,  but  He  suppHes  us.  All  we  are, 
is  by  Christ;  all  we  have,  is  from  Christ ;  all 
we  shall  be,  is  through  Christ.  Believer,  thou 
art  nothing :  therefore  beware  of  thinking  too 
highly  of  thyself,  or  fancying  that  you  deserve 
more  than  you  receive,  either  from  God 
or  men. 


Oh,  could  I  lose  myself  in  Tliee, 
Thy  depth  of  mercy  prove, 

Thou  vast  unfathomable  sea 
Of  unexhausted  love  ! 

I  loathe  myself  when  God  I  ?ee, 

Content  if  Christ  exalted  be. 


APRIL    2  9. 


But  thou  art  rich.     Rev.  ii.  9. 


Real  saints  always  feel  themselves  to  be  poor 
sinners.  Many  of  God's  people  arc  really 
poor  in  reference  to  the  things  of  time,  for 
God  hath  chosen  the  poor  of  this  world,  rich 
in  faith,  and  heirs  of  the  kingdom  which  He 
hath  promised  to  them  that  love  Him.  They 
are  often  persecuted,  tried,  tem-pted,  and  cast 
down  ;  so  was  the  church  in  S.myvna  ;  but  Jesus 
says  to  her,  "  thou  art  rich."  So  are  all 
the  Lord's  people.  Rich  by  relation — God  is 
their  Father,  and  Jesus  their  elder  Brother. 
Rich  by  donation — Jesus  has  bequeathed  un- 
searchable riches  to  them.  Rich  by  promise 
— the  Lord  has  promised  all  good  things.  Rich 
by  faith — for  he  that  believeth  shall  inherit 
all  things.  Rich  in  expectation — for  they 
look  for  a  city  which  hath  foundations,  whose 
builder  and  maker  is  God.  Believer,  thou  art 
rich  ;  Jesus  has  willed  to  thee  His  righteousness, 
to  justify  thee;  His  blood,  to  cleanse  thee;  His 
Spirit,  to  sanctify  thee ;  His  name,  to  procure 
for  thee ;  His  angels,  to  minister  unto  thee ; 
and  His  heaven,  to  be  thy  everlasting  habitation. 
Precious  Saviour !  I  would  admire  and  adore 
thy  love !  O  teach  me  to  live  out  of  self  on 
Thy  fulness. 

Called  by  grace,  the  sinner  see, 
Rich,  though  sunk  in  poverty  ; 
Rich  in  faith  tliat  God  has  given. 

He's  II  lugiil  huir  of  hLavcu. 
124 


APRIL    3  0. 

That  which  I  see  not  teach  Thou  me. 
Job  xxxiv.  32. 

We  were  once  blind,  but  now  our  eyes  are 
open  :  but  still  we  are  absolutely  dependant  on 
divine  teaching,  or  we  shall  never  become  truly 
wise.  If  God  teach  us,  self  will  become  vile ; 
the  world  vanity  ;  sin  bitter  ;  the  blood  of  Christ 
most  precious ;  His  righteousness  glorious  ;  His 
name  our  only  hope ;  His  love  our  joy ;  His 
Spirit  our  strength;  His  glory  our  aim;  and 
"Teach  Thou  me,"  our  daily  prayer.  We  see 
but  little  of  what  Christ  is  in  Himself;  of  what 
He  hath  dons  for  His  people,  of  what  He  pos- 
sesses, and  will  give  to  all  who  call  upon  Him  in 
truth  ;  of  what  He  has  promised  to  work  in  us, 
and  bestow  upon  us.  Beloved,  let  us  daily 
plead  with  God  to  teach  us,  that  we  may  know 
Christ,  and  the  power  of  His  resurrection,  and 
the  fellowship  of  His  sufferings,  and  be  made 
conformable  to  His  death.  Let  us  beg  the  Spirit 
of  wisdom  and  revelation  in  the  knowledge  of 
Christ,  that  we  may  know  what  is  the  hope  of 
His  calling,  and  what  is  the  riches  of  the  glory 
of  His  inheritance  in  the  saints.  Jehovah  alone 
can  teach  us  to  profit. 

O  Jesus,  teach  ray  soul  to  know 
Thyself,  the  truth,  the  life,  the  way ; 
May  I  ia  grace  and  knowledge  grow, 
Till  I  arrive  in  perfect  day : 
From  Satan,  self,  and  sin  set  free, 
And  what  I  know  not  teach  Thou  me. 


125 


MAY    1. 

J  will  be  a  Father  unto  you.     2  Cor.  vi.  18. 

No  man  can  be  a  loser  by  adhering  to  G-od's 
holy  word,  for  he  is  promised  a  hundred-fold  in 
the  present  life,  and  in  the  world  to  come  life 
everlasting.  Carnal  connections  must  be  broken 
off.  Decision  of  character  must  be  manifested. 
The  world  must  be  forsaken.  Christ  and  the 
world  will  not  unite.  Carnality  and  spirituality 
cannot  be  reconciled.  Oar  God  says,  "Come 
out  from  among  them,  and  be  ye  separate : 
touch  not  the  unclean  thing  ;  and  I  will  receive 
you,  and  will  be  a  Father  unto  you."  What 
can  we  need  more  to  encourage,  embolden,  and 
produce  decision  ?  Suppose  men  reject  me, 
despise  me,  and  persecute  me  ;  G-od  will  receive 
me.  Suppose  they  injure  me  and  try  to  starve 
me,  God  will  be  a  Father  to  me.  He  will  care 
for  me — protect  me — dwell  with  me — comfort 
me — supply  me — and  fill  a  Father's  place.  I 
cannot  be  friendless.  I  should  not  be  fearful. 
Beloved,  G-od  says,  "prove  me."  Are  you 
called  upon  to  forsake  friends,  to  break  off  con- 
nections, lose  trade,  or  endure  persecutions? 
Fear  not,  act  for  God — look  to  G-od — He  will 
receive  you,  and  be  a  Father  to  you. 


And  -wilt  tliou,  Lord,  a  Father  be, 
To  those  -VN'ho  leave  the  world  for  Tliee  ? 
Wilt  Thou  provide  for  every  -want, 
And  token;*  of  Thy  favor  grant  ? 
Then,  Lord,  I  bid  the  world  farewell, 
And  now  Thy  word  in  me  fidlil. 
1'2G 


MAY   2. 


But  grow  in  grace.     2  Pet.  iii.  18. 

Never  rest  satisfied  with  present  attainments. 
God  has  much  to  bestow,  and  we  are  capable  of 
receiving,  enjoying,  and  using  to  His  glory.  As 
the  tree  planted  in  good  soil  grows  both  in  the 
root  and  the  branches,  so  should  the  Christian ; 
he  should  be  rooted  in  the  love  of  God,  and  arrow 
up  in  conformity  to  Jesus.  If  we  grow  in  grace, 
we  shall  discover  more  of  our  own  wretchedness, 
misery,  and  weakness;  and  more  of  the  pre- 
ciousness,  fulness,  and  glory  of  Christ.  We 
shall  be  humble  before  God,  and  active  before 
men.  We  shall  trust  in  Jesus  more  simply, 
having  no  confidence  in  the  flesh.  Grace  al- 
ways leads  out  of  self  to  Jesus,  and  puts  the 
crown  of  crowns  upon  His  head.  Grace  is  spir- 
itual beauty ;  it  is  the  very  glory  of  God.  To 
grow  in  grace  is  to  grow  like  Jesus,  meek  and 
lowly  in  heart ;  active  and  devoted  in  life ; 
blameless  and  harmless  as  the  sons  of  God. 
Let  us  have  grace,  for  God  loves  to  bestow  it ; 
let  us  grow  in  grace,  for  God  commands  it; 
let  us  look  forward  for  the  grace  that  is  to  be 
brought  unto  us  at  the  coming  of  Jesus,  for  God 
has  promised  it.  Look  for  that  blessed  hope, 
even  the  glorious  appearing  of  Jesus. 

Though  holy  deeds  and  frxiits  of  grace 

Are  in  believers  fouad, 
'Tis  Christ's  command  that  they  increase, 

And  more  and  more  abound : 
O  Saviour  !  may  I  grow  in  grace, 
Till  I  behold  Thee  face  to  face. 

127 


MAY    3. 

7s  thy  Counsellor  perished  ?     Micali  iv.  9. 

The  Lord's  people  need  counsel,  and  Jesus  is 
given  to  them  as  a  Counsellor.  He  is  exactly 
suited  to  their  needs,  being  possessed  of  infinite 
wisdom,  unbounded  benevolence,  great  expe- 
rience, and  high  honor.  He  never  lost  a  cause. 
He  counsels  freely,  cheerfully,  and  successfully. 
He  turns  the  counsel  of  all  our  foes  into  foolish- 
ness. But  though  we  have  this  wonderful 
Counsellor,  we  neglect  to  consult,  employ,  or 
trust  Him ;  and  it  may  often  be  demanded  of  us, 
"  Is  thy  Counsellor  perished?"  If  not,  why  this 
perplexity  ?  Why  these  mistakes  ?  why  those 
fears,  and  groans,  and  forebodings  ?  Why  this 
running  to  creatures  for  advice  and  succor  ? 
Beloved,  let  us  stand  reproved  ;  we  have  walked 
in  our  own  counsels,  we  have  not  waited  for 
His  counsel,  we  have  neglected  and  forgotten 
Jesus  in  this  office.  Let  us  in  future  never  act 
without  His  counsel,  never  employ  men  to  His 
dishonor,  never  listen  to  Satan  when  He  would 
persuade  us  not  to  apply  to,  trust  in,  and  expect 
advice  from  Jesus  as  our  Counsellor.  He  says, 
"  I  will  counsel  thee,  mine  eye  shall  be  upon 
thee." 

Lord,  be  my  Counsellor, 

My  Pattern  and  my  Guide ; 

And  through  this  desert  land, 

Still  keep  me  near  Thy  side  ; 
Oh,  let  my  feet  ne'er  run  astray. 
Nor  rove,  nor  seek  the  crooked  way. 

128 


MAY    4. 

/  will  heal  your  backsliding^.    Jer.  iii.  22. 

Sin  brings  siclcness.  The  believer  can  only  be 
hcaUhi'ul  as  he  walks  with  God,  lives  above  the 
worlJ,  and  looks  for  the  coming  of  our  Lord 
JcsLis  Christ.  At  the  feet  of  Jesus  we  are  safe, 
and  shall  be  healthy  ;  but  if  we  wander  from 
Him,  spiritual  disease  will  seize  upon  us.  The 
backslider  feels  too  weak,  to  run  in  the  way  of 
God's  commands  ;  too  confused,  to  read  His  in- 
terest in  God's  promises ;  too  guilty,  to  call  God 
Father ;  too  wretched,  to  rejoice  in  hope.  He 
has  no  liberty  in  prayer ;  no  enjoyment  of  his 
Bible  ;  no  peace  in  his  conscience ;  no  delight  in 
God's  ways.  But  the  Lord  says,  "  Return,  ye 
backsliding  children  ;  I  ■^^^LL  heal  your  BACKSLm- 
INGS."  This  is  a  message  from  the  Great  Physi- 
cian, an  invitation  from  our  Father's  throne,  a 
promise  of  our  Saviour's  love.  Oh,  let  us  return 
unto  Him  with  weeping  and  supplication,  adopt- 
ing David's  prayer  as  our  own,  "  Heal  my  soul, 
for  I  have  sinned  against  thee."  Let  us  take  up 
the  determination  of  the  church,  "  Behold,  we 
come  unto  thee,  for  thou  art  the  Lord  our  God." 
He  will  receive  us  graciously,  and  love  us 
freely. 


Give  me  Thy  pardoning  love  to  feel, 
And  freely  my  backslidings  heal, 

Repair  my  faith's  decay  ; 
Restore  the  sweetness  of  Thy  grace, 
Reveal  the  glories  of  Tliy  face, 

And  take  my  sins  away. 


120 


n* 


MAY   5. 

Being  in  an  agony.     Luke  xxii.  44. 

Beloved,  let  us  visit  Gethsemane  this  morning, 
and  see  this  strange  sight.  Here  is  our  Surety  ; 
the  only-begotten  Son  of  God  ;  the  brightness 
of  Jehovah's  glory,  and  the  express  image  of  His 
person  ;  groaning  on  the  cold  ground,  and  bap- 
tized in  blood.  He  is  sore  amazed  ;  His  heart  is 
filled  with  horror,  and  His  mind  with  dread  ;  His 
soul  is  troubled,  tossed  with  tempests  and  not 
comforted  ;  He  is  exceeding  sorrowful,  even  unto 
death.  The  sorrows  of  death  encompass  Him, 
and  the  pains  of  hell  have  gotten  hold  upon 
Him.  His  heart  like  wax  is  melted  in  the  midst 
of  His  bowels.  His  whole  nature  is  convulsed  ; 
He  sweats  blood;  He  cries  aloud,  with  an  ex- 
ceeding bitter  cry,  and  His  heart  faileth  Hira. 
No  human  hand  toucheth  Him  ;  but  it  is  the 
hour  and  power  of  darkness.  Our  sins  meet 
upon  Him ;  His  soul  is  made  an  offering  for  our 
sins  ;  and  it  hath  pleased  Jehovah  to  bruise  Him. 
Was  ever  sorrow  like  unto  His  sorrow  ?  He  is 
IN  AN  AGONY.  Here  our  sins  are  punished,  our 
iniquities  are  expiated,  and  our  justification 
is  procured.  Oh,  to  love  Jesus  even  to  an 
agony  ! 

Go  to  dark  Gethsemane, 
Ye  that  feel  the  tempter's  power ; 
Yom"  Redeemer's  conflict  see, 
Watch  with  Him  one  bitter  hour : 
Turn  not  from  His  griefs  away, — 
Learn  of  Jesus  Clirist  to  pray. 

130 


MAY   6. 
Pray  xoithout  ceasing.     1  Thess.  v.  17. 

In  prayer  we  must  approach  God  as  a  Father, 
ask  of  Him  what  we  really  need,  and  expect  to 
receive  according  to  His  wisdom  and  word. 
Our  wants  are  constantly  returning,  therefore 
our  prayers  should  be  constantly  ascending. 
The  ear  of  God  is  always  open  ;  He  is  ever 
ready  to  listen  to  us  ;  He  invites,  exhorts,  and 
commands  us  to  pray  always  in  everything. 
Every  object  that  meets  the  eye,  every  circum- 
stance that  occurs,  every  employment  in  which 
we  engage,  would  afford  matter  for  prayer  if 
properly  viewed.  The  believer  should  acquire 
the  HABIT  of  prayer.  He  should  look  up  to  His 
God  for  all  He  needs,  through  all  he  sees,  when- 
ever he  has  a  moment  to  spare.  The  prayers  of 
a  Christian  are  pleasant  to  his  God ;  He  says, 
"  Let  me  hear  thy  voice,  let  me  see  thy  counte- 
nance ;  for  sweet  is  thy  voice,  and  thy  counte- 
nance is  comely."  The  believer  should  pray  as 
naturally  and  as  constantly  as  he  breathes ;  for 
prayer  is  the  breath  of  the  soul.  Beloved,  if 
prayer  dwindle  into  a  mere  duty,  is  but  occasion- 
ally offered,  or  becomes  burdensome,  it  is  clear 
that  you  are  in  a  most  unhealthy  state. 


Through  the  skies  when  the  thunder  is  hui  I'd, 

The  child  to  its  parent  will  flee  : 

Thus,  amid  the  rehukes  of  the  world, 

I  turn,  0  my  Father,  to  thee : 
The  spirit  of  prayer  in  thy  mercy  impart, 
And  take  up  thy  constant  abode  in  my  heart. 

.     131 


MAY  7. 


0  Israel,  thou  shall  not  he  forgotten  of  me. 
Isaiali  xliv.  21. 

What  tenderness,  mercy,  and  love  are  here ! 
Friends  forget  us,  relatives  are  careless  about 
us,  and  we  sometimes  fear  our  God  has  forgot- 
ten us ;  but  here  He  assures  us  that  we  shall 
never  be  forgotten  of  Him.  Our  names  are  in 
His  book  ;  our  Representative  is  always  before 
His  throne,  and  we  are  the  objects  of  His  con- 
stant care.  He  cannot  forget  us  while  Jesus 
pleads  for  us  ;  and  if  He  does  not  forget.  He  will 
never  neglect.  There  is  only  one  thing  He  is 
ever  said  to  forget,  and  that  is  our  sins  ;  but  He 
is  always  mindful  of  His  covenant.  He  will 
not  forget  the  circumstances  in  which  we  are 
placed,  the  wants  by  which  we  are  pained,  or 
the  prayers  we  put  up  at  His  throne.  But 
though  we  are  assured  our  God  will  never  forget 
us,  yet  we  can  find  no  satisfaction,  but  as  the 
Holy  Spirit  humbles  us,  empties  us,  and  exalts 
Christ  before  us  ;  showing  us  our  pardon,  peace, 
and  salvation  in  His  life,  death,  and  intercession. 
Beloved,  let  us  mind  the  things  of  the  Spirit, 
and  daily  seek  humbling,  quickening,  and  sanc- 
tifying grace. 

O  Lord,  my  God  !  whose  sovereign  love 
Is  still  the  same,  nor  e'er  can  move, 
Look  to  the  covenant,  an;l  see, 
Has  not  Tliy  love  bccni  shown  to  me  ? 
Remember  me,  my  glurious  Friend, 
And  love  me  always  to  tlie  end. 

132 


MAY    S. 

Wait  on  the  Lord,  and  He  shall  save  thee. 
Prov.  XX.  22. 

Bei-oved,  it  is  your  privilege  in  every  perplexity 
and  trial  to  go  to  the  Lord,  to  spread  your  case 
before  Hitn,  to  plead  His  precious  promises, 
and  to  wait  expecting  Him  to  appear  for  you. 
Wait  on  Him  for  light  to  discover  the  nature 
and  design  of  your  trouble ;  for  wisdom  that 
you  may  act  honorably,  and  endure  script- 
urally ;  for  power  to  sustain  you  under,  and 
bring  you  through  it ;  and  for  consolation  to 
make  you  happy  and  resigned  under  it.  Wait 
upon  the  Lord  in  earnest,  simple,  persevering 
prayer ;  in  searching,  reading,  and  meditating 
upon  His  holy  word  ;  in  self-examination  as  to 
your  views,  motives,  and  designs.  Wait  upon 
the  Lord,  believing  that  He  will  fulfil  His  word, 
answer  your  prayers,  and  send  you  deliverance  ; 
patiently  enduring  until  He  shall  see  good  to 
appear  on  your  behalf.  Waiting  on  the  Lord 
you  engage  Him  on  your  side ;  you  put  His 
mercy  and  faithfulness  to  the  trial ;  you  are 
assured  your  strength  shall  be  renewed ;  and 
God  has  promised  that  you  shall  not  be  ashamed. 
Beloved,  let  us  look  to,  trust  in,  and  wait  upon 
our  God  continually. 

Oh,  teach  me,  Lord,  to  wait  thy  will, 
To  be  content  with  all  thou  dost; 
For  me  thy  grace  sufficient  still, 
With  most  supplied  when  needing  most : 
0  Saviour  !  give  me  grace  to  wait, 
And  daily  watch  before  thy  gate. 

133 


MAY  9. 

The  glory  of  Ills  grace.     Ephes.  i.  6. 

The  glory  of  grace  is  its  freeness  :  it  fixes 
upon  objects  that  are  most  unworthy  ;  bestows 
upon  them  the  richest  blessings ;  raises  them  to 
the  highest  honor  ;  promises  them  the  greatest 
happiness  ;  and  all  for  its  own  glory.  Nothing 
can  be  freer  than  grace.  The  glory  of  grace  is 
its  POWER  ;  it  conquers  the  stubbornest  sinners  ; 
subdues  the  hardest  hearts  ;  tames  the  wildest 
wills  ;  enlightens  the  darkest  understandings  ; 
breaks  off  the  strongest  fetters  ;  and  invariably 
conquers  its  objects.  Grace  is  omnipotent.  The 
glory  of  grace  is  its  benevolence  ;  it  never  in- 
jured one  ;  it  has  delivered,  supplied,  conducted, 
supported,  and  glorified  thousands ;  it  brings 
the  inexhaustible  fulness  of  GoJ  to  supply  the 
creature's  wants  ;  it  opens  the  treasury  of  heaven, 
to  enrich  poor,  miserable,  and  wretched  creatures 
on  earth.  Grace  gives  away  all  it  has,  reserv- 
ing nothing  for  itself  but  the  praise  and  glory  of 
its  acts.  Jesus  is  grace  personified  ;  in  Him  it 
may  be  seen,  in  all  its  beauty,  excellence,  and 
loveliness ;  by  Him  it  is  displayed  in  all  its  na- 
tive dignity.  O  Jesus!  glorify  thy  free,  power- 
ful, and  benevolent  grace  in  me  ! 


0  Jet^us  !  full  of  truth  and  grace, 
More  full  of  grace  than  I  of  sin, — 

Yet  once  again  I  seek  thy  face, 
Open  thine  arms  and  take  nie  in; 

Oh !  freely  my  backslidings  heal, 

And  love  the  dying  sinner  still. 
134 


MAY    10. 

He  doth  not  afflict  willivghj.     Lam.  iii.  33. 

Our  afllictions  do  not  flow  from  sovereignty,  but 
from  our  Father's  wisdom,  holiness,  and  love. 
He  finds  no  pleasure  in  our  pains,  groans,  and 
sighs.  He  is  never  hasty  in  using  the  rod : 
mercy  flies  to  help  us,  but  He  is  slow  to  anger 
and  of  great  kindness.  He  never  afflicts  us 
without  a  sufficient  cause  ;  either  sin  has  been 
committed  ;  duties  neglected  ;  mercies  slighted  ; 
lukewarmness  discovered ;  worldly-mindedness 
tolerated  ;  privileges  abused  ;  warnings  despised ; 
temptations  trifled  with ;  or  danger  is  near. 
He  never  afflicts  without  a  good  and  gracious 
intention,  to  make  us  fear,  loathe,  and  ilee  from 
sin ;  to  show  His  disapprobation  of  our  unholy 
course  ;  to  quicken  us  in  His  ways  :  to  make 
us  long  for,  seek,  and  partake  of  His  holiness  ; 
to  produce  contrition  and  godly  sorrow  ;  or  to 
prove  that  His  authority  is  not  surrendered  be- 
cause His  love  is  great.  He  only  afflicts  par- 
tially, occasionally,  and  sparingly.  He  always 
strikes  in  love,  and  aims  at  our  spiritual  welfare  ; 
and  we  are  often  more  benefited  by  afflictions, 
than  we  are  by  comforts  and  joys.  O  Saviour, 
sanctify  to  me  every  afflicting  stroke ! 

In  the  floods  of  tribulation 

While  the  billows  o'er  me  roll, 
Jesus  -whispers  consolation, 

And  supports  my  fainting  soul ; 

Sweet  affliction, 
Thus  to  bring  my  Saviour  near. 

135 


MAY    11. 

Rejoice  in  the  Lord  alway.     Phil.  iv.  4. 

Tins  is  a  very  difficult  precept ;  sometimes  the 
Lord  hides  His  face ;  we  fear  and  doubt  our 
interest  in  His  love  ;  we  are  almost  bewildered 
througii  the  powerful  workings  of  corruption 
within  us  :  we  are  bowed  down  by  Satan's  sore 
temptations ;  and  the  dispensations  of  provi- 
dence are  so  perplexing,  that  we  are  ready  to 
cry  out,  "  All  things  are  against  us."  But  we 
are  not  bidden  to  rejoice  in  frames  and  feelings, 
or  in  the  dispensations  of  providence,  but  in  tlie 
Lord.  He  has  loved  us  with  an  everlasting 
love,  and  His  love  is  immutably  the  same  ;  He 
is  our  God  in  Jesus,  and  has  promised  to  be 
unto  us,  to  do  for  us,  and  freely  give  us,  all 
that  our  circumstances  require,  or  that  will  be 
for  our  good  and  His  glory.  In  weakness  wc 
may  rejoice  in  His  power ;  in  darkness  we  may 
rejoice  that  He  knoweth  our  path  ;  in  sickness 
and  sorrow,  that  He  careth  for  us  ;  and  under 
any  circumstances,  in  His  covenant  relations ; 
for  He  is  always  our  Father,  Friend,  and  God. 
We  should  rejoice  in  His  free  grace,  rich  mercy, 
omnipotent  power,  faithful  promises,  special 
providence,  and  unchangeable  love. 


Rejoice  in  glorious  hope  ! 

Jesus  the  Judge  shall  come, 

And  take  His  servants  up 

To  their  eternal  home  : 
We  soon  shall  hear  the  archangel's  voice, — 
The  trump  of  God  shall  sound,  Rejoice. 
136 


MAY    12. 

Their  righteousness  is  of  me,  saith  the  Lord. 
Isaiah  liv.  17. 

The  longer  the  Christian  lives,  the  more  he 
learns  ;  and  the  more  the  Spirit  teaches  hitn, 
the  more  he  loathes  himself,  and  renounces  his 
own  righteousness  as  filthy  rags.  He  hoped 
sensibly  to  grow  in  holiness,  to  feel  his  cor- 
ruptions subdued,  and  to  enjoy  without  inter- 
ruption the  presence  of  his  God  ;  but  instead 
of  this,  he  seems  to  grow  more  like  Satan, 
corruption  appears  to  get  stronger  and  stronger, 
and  the  depravity  of  his  nature  appears  so 
dreadful,  that  he  enjoys  scarcely  anything. 
He  thinks  himself  a  monster  of  iniquity,  and 
wonders  how  God  can  possibly  love  him,  or 
show  any  favor  unto  him.  This  experience 
endears  free  grace,  renders  Christ  unspeakably 
precious,  and  the  gift  of  righteousness  in- 
valuable. How  can  such  a  man  be  just  before 
God  ?  Where  is  his  righteousness  to  come  from  ? 
Jehovah  answers,  "  His  righteousness  is  of 
ME."  Jesus  wrought  it ;  the  Father  imputes  it 
to  us  ;  the  gospel  reveals  it ;  and  faith  receives 
it,  puts  it  on,  and  pleads  it  before  God.  O 
Jesus  !  in  Thee  have  I  righteousness  and  strengfth. 


My  hope  is  built  on  nothing  less 
Than  Jesus'  blood  and  righteousness ; 
I  dare  not  trust  the  sweetest  frame, 
But  wholly  lean  on  Jesus'  name  : 
On  Ciirist  the  solid  Rock  I  stand  ; 
All  other  ground  is  sinking  sand. 

1:57 


MAY    13. 

The  Lord  hath  blessed  me  hitherto. 
Josh.  xvii.  14. 

Believer,  cannot  you  join  with  the  children 
of  Joseph  this  morning,  and  bear  a  similar  tes- 
timony ?  Thy  God  hath  blessed  thee  in  Jesus, 
and  through  Jesus  ;  look  back  to  the  roclc 
whence  you  were  hewn,  and  to  the  hole  of  the 
pit  whence  you  were  digged  ;  call  to  mind  the 
time  and  place,  when  and  where  thy  God  first 
led  thee  to  cry  for  mercy,  and  seek  for  salvation ; 
remember  the  distress  and  bandage  felt  before 
mercy  was  manifested ;  and  then  remember  how 
your  soul  was  delivered,  and  the  comforts  of 
the  Holy  Ghost  imparted.  Think  of  thy  dif- 
ficulties and  dangers,  thy  trials  and  fears,  and 
the  deliverances  the  Lord  has  wrought,  the 
favor  He  hath  shown,  and  the  comforts  He 
has  imparted  :  and  surely  you  will  gratefully 
acknowledge,  "  He  hath  blessed  me  hither- 
to." He  promised  to  bless,  and  you  have  found 
Him  faithful.  He  has  manifested  a  Father's 
love,  and  a  Mother's  tenderness  in  dealing  with 
you.  But  what  have  been  your  returns  ?  Oh, 
be  humble,  for  you  have  been  ungrateful !  But 
cleave  to  Jesus,  for  God  gives  no  blessing  but 
by  and  through  Him. 

Jesua  found  me  vile  and  guilty, 

I  had  broken  all  His  laws ; 
When  He  look'd  He  saw  me  filthy  ; 

All  corrupt  my  nature  was  : 
Mine  appear'd  a  hopeless  case, 
Such  it  had  been  but  for  grace. 
138 


MAY    14. 

Tliey  shall  be  mine,  saith  the  Lord  of  Hosts. 
Mai.  iii.  17. 

Who  ?  They  that  fear  the  Lord  and  think 
upon  His  name.  They  who  fear  to  offend  Him 
because  they  love  Hun.  Who  desire  above  all 
things  to  obey  Him,  be  conformed  unto  Him, 
and  glorify  Him.  They  who  think  upon  His 
name,  "  Our  Father  ;"  and  believe  Him  to 
be  gracious,  merciful,  long-suffering,  abundant 
in  goodness  and  truth.  Who  approach  Him  as 
children  ;  who  walk  before  Him,  desiring  to  do 
everything  as  under  His  eye ;  who  are  jealous 
of  His  honor,  and  concerned  for  His  glory. 
Who  speak  of  His  goodness,  talk  of  His  power, 
and  adore  the  riches  of  His  grace.     "  They  shall 

BE    MINE,  saith    THE    LoUD    OF    HoSTS."       He  will 

treat  them  as  children,  prize  them  as  His  jew- 
els, and  acknowledge  them  before  assembled 
angels.  He  will  put  a  difference  between  them 
and  others,  and  will  manifest  Himself  unto 
them  as  He  does  not  unto  the  world.  Beloved, 
are  we  entitled  to  claim  this  precious  promise  ? 
Do  we  fear  Cxod  ?  Are  we  grieved  at  sin,  be- 
cause it  dishonors  him  ?  Do  we  think  upon  His 
name  with  love  and  reverence?  If  so.  He  will 
spare  us,  preserve  us,  and  place  us  among  His 
jewels  forever. 

Hail,  sacred  day  !  that  shall  declare 
The  jewels  of  tlu'  Son  of  God  ; 
Desigii'd  to  deck  II is  crown  they  were, 
Chosen  of  old  aiul  bouj]it  with  blood. 

139 


MAY    15. 


We  walk  by  faith.     2  Cor.  v.  7. 


The  Christian's  path  is  often  very  rough  ; 
thorns  and  briers  grow  on  either  side,  dark 
clouds  hang  over  it,  and  no  cheering  prospects 
appear  to  animate  the  heart.  But  if  he  acts 
consistently,  he  still  believes  it  is  the  right  path  ; 
that  trials  are  mercies  in  disguise,  and  that  the 
path  of  tribulation  ends  in  the  kingdom  of  God. 
He  believes  it  is  all  needful,  it  is  the  very  best 
way  his  Father  could  select ;  that  the  design  of 
God  is  gracious,  and  his  present  trials  are  to 
end  in  His  eternal  welfare.  He  believes  his 
God  is  with  Hitn,  though  He  does  not  enjoy  His 
presence,  and  that  all  needful  supplies  will  be 
sent,  though  he  cannot  tell  from  whence.  He 
rests  on  the  faithful  word,  trusts  in  an  im- 
mutable God,  and  says,  when  surrounded  by 
trials,  "  None  of  these  things  move  me;  I  know 
that  it  is  through  much  tribulation  that  I  must 
enter  the  kingdom ;  my  God  will  support  me. 
His  hand  will  defend  me,  and  His  grace  shall 
be  glorified  in  my  present  and  eternal  salvation. 
I  know  not  the  way,  but  my  God  knows,  and 
He  will  lead  me;  He  will  never  leave  me,  but 
will  be  my  guide,  even  unto  death." 


Oil  may  I  daily  \ralk  by  faith, 

Believing  what  my  God  has  spoke  ; 

Rely  on  His  unchanging  love, 

And  cease  to  grasp  at  fleeting  smoke ; 

On  His  eternal  tnilh  depoml. 

And  know  Him  as  my  God  and  Friend. 
140 


MAY    16. 

Blessed  are  yc  that  hunger  now.     Luke  vi.  21. 

Appetite  supposes  life,  and  is  regulated  by 
nature ;  the  carnal  appetite  is  satisfied  with 
carnal  things  ;  but  a  Christian  can  only  be  satis- 
fied with  spiritual  things.  He  hungers  to  enjoy 
an  interest  in  Christ;  for  righteousness  wrought 
in  him  by  the  Spirit,  and  given  to  him  by  Jesus ; 
to  be  conformed  to  the  image  of  Christ ;  to  know 
Him  extensively,  experimentally,  and  practically ; 
to  enjoy  God  as  his  portion ;  and  that  Christ 
may  be  magnified  in  him  by  life  or  by  death. 
His  appetite  is  fixed  on  its  object ;  no  substitute 
can  be  found ;  it  is  only  as  he  feeds  upon  Christ 
that  he  enjoys  satisfaction.  Beloved,  how  is 
it  with  you  this  morning?  Are  you  hungering 
for  Jesus  ?  He  fillet h  the  hungry  with  good 
things  ;  He  pronounces  them  blessed.  They  are 
blessed  with  spiritual  life  ;  with  an  interest  in 
the  things  for  which  they  hunger ;  and  with  the 
operations  of  the  Holy  Spirit.  None  but  God 
can  produce  this  hunger,  and  only  God  can 
satisfy  it ;  and  He  will ;  for  He  lias  said,  they 
SHAT-ii  BE  FILLED,  This  is  plain  ;  positive;  un- 
conditional ;  and  certain.  Believe  it  and  be 
happy. 


Eless'd  ai'e  the  souls  that  thirst  for  grace, 
Hunger  and  long  for  righteousness  : 
They  s^hall  be  well  sujiplied,  and  fed 
"With  living  streams,  and  living  bread : 
01),  may  my  hungry  soul  receive 
The  food  on  which  Thy  people  live. 

1  !I 


MAY    IT. 

He  will  rc&t  in  His  love.     Zepl).  iii.  17. 

Man's  love  is  changeable,  being  a  passion ; 
Gt)d's  love  is  unchangeable,  being  a  perfection. 
Having  loved.  He  always  will  love.  Nothing 
can  occur  in  time  but  what  He  knew  from 
eternity ;  consequently  there  can  be  no  reason 
to-day,  why  God  should  not  love  me,  but  what 
He  knew  would  be  before  He  set  His  heart 
upon  me.  He  fixed  His  love  upon  us  in  the 
fore-view  of  all  that  would  be  done  by  us,  or 
felt  within  us :  and  connected  us  with  Jesus,  that 
He  might  never  withdraw  His  love  from  us. 
Oh,  to  be  able  to  say  with  holy  John,  "  We 
have  known  and  believed  the  love  that  God 
hath  to  us  !  God  is  love !"  The  love  of  God 
is  from  everlasting  to  everlasting  ;  without  vari- 
ableness, or  the  shadow  of  a  turn.  Here  God 
resteth,  and  here  we  should  rest.  Herein  is  love, 
that  God  should  take  such  poor,  vile,  ungrateful, 
wretched  creatures,  and  make  them  the  bride  of 
His  Son,  the  delight  of  His  soul,  and  His  por- 
tion for  evermore.  Oh,  the  riches  of  divine  love  ! 
Admire  it,  trust  it,  rejoice  in  it ;  and  make  it 
the  subject  of  your  daily  meditation.  He  will 
REST  IN  nis  LOVE.  On  this  rock  we  may  rest 
with  confidence ;  on  this  pillow  we  may  repose 
in  peace. 

The  coVnant  of  grace  all  blessings  secures ; 

Believer,  rejoice,  for  all  things  are  yours  ; 

y\ntl  Ood  fniiii  Hii  piivp.i^e  shall  nc\e;-  removo, 

But  love  thee,  and  bless  thoe,  and  rest  in  His  love. 

142 


MAY    1§. 
And  went  and  told  Jesus.     Matt.  xiv.  12. 

When  Herod  beheaded  John,  his  disciples  took 
up  his  body  and  buried  it,  and  went  and  told 
Jesus.  Let  us  imitate  their  example,  and  carry 
all  to  Jesus.  He  loves  to  listen  to  the  tale  of 
human  woe.  He  can  and  will  sympathize  with 
us  in  all  our  trials  and  troubles.  He  is  our 
Father,  and  to  whom  should  the  child  tell  his 
troubles,  but  to  his  kind  and  tender  parent  ? 
He  will  direct  our  steps,  avenge  our  wrongs,  and 
turn  all  things  to  our  advantage.  Does  business 
go  wrong  ?  Are  enemies  active  ?  Is  corruption 
strong?  Does  faith  flag?  Are  you  tried  in 
your  family  ?  Go  and  tell  Jesus.  It  will  ease 
your  mind  ;  prevent  sin ;  insure  supplies  ;  mani- 
fest relation  ;  and  frustrate  the  designs  of  Satan. 
Do  not  sit  poring  over  your  miseries ;  go  not  to 
creatures  ;  neither  murmur,  complain,  nor  fret ; 
but  go  to  Jesus ;  go  with  speed  ;  go  in  hope  ;  go 
and  tell  Him  all,  without  reserve.  Go  this 
morning,  with  all  thy  complaints,  desires,  and 
fears  ;  lay  them  all  before  Him,  and  beseech  Him 
to  undertake  for  you.  He  loves  to  hear  you,  has 
promised  to  help  you,  and  will  certainly  bless  you. 
It  is  your  duty,  and  your  privilege,  to  pour  out 
your  heart  before  Him,  and  find  Him  a  refuge 
for  you. 

Our  sorrows  and  our  tears  we  pour 

Into  the  bosom  of  our  God ; 
Ho  lionr^  tis  in  tlie  mournful  lionr, 

And  helps  to  bear  the  heavy  load. 

143 


MAY    19. 

It  shall  he  well.     2  Kings  iv.  23. 

This  was  the  language  of  a  believer,  in  trouble  ; 
and  it  should  be  our  lanofuaj^e  under  similar 
circumstances.  Our  trials,  troubles,  and  diffi- 
culties may  be  great;  but  it  shall  be  well  with 
them  that  fear  God.  Are  you  alarmed  at  the 
powerful  working  of  corruption  within  you  ?  It 
shall  be  well,  for  sin  shall  not  have  dominion 
over  you  ;  for  you  are  not  under  the  law,  but  un- 
der grace.  Are  you  distressed  by  the  evil  sug- 
gestions and  powerful  temptations  of  Satan  ?  It 
shall  be  well,  for  the  God  of  peace  will  bruise 
Satan  under  your  feet  shortly.  Is  your  soul 
cast  down  by  the  vexations,  difficulties,  and 
trials  of  the  way  ?  It  shall  be  well,  for  all 
things  shall  work  together  for  good,  to  them 
that  love  God,  to  those  that  are  the  called 
according  to  His  purpose.  Do  you  conclude 
your  case  is  singular,  and  therefore  fear  ?  It 
shall  be  well,  for  no  temptation  hath  taken  you 
but  such  as  is  common  to  man  ;  and  God  is 
faithful,  who  will  not  suffer  you  to  be  tempted 
above  that  ye  arc  able  ;  but  will  also  with  the 
temptation  make  a  way  to  escape,  that  ye  may 
be  able  to  bear  it.  Oh,  precious  promise  of  a 
gracious  God !  Lord,  help  me  to  believe,  rely, 
and  rejoice. 

What  cheering  words  are  these, 

Their  sweetness  who  can  tell  f 
In  time,  anil  to  eternal  days, 

'Tis  with  the  righteous  well. 
144 


MAY   2  0. 

He  giveth  more  grace.    James  iv.  6. 

It  is  impossible  to  be  more  welcome  at  the 
throne  of  grace  than  we  are,  or  for  God  to  be 
more  willing  to  bestow.  We  are  as  welcome 
to  the  throne  of  grace,  as  angels  are  to  the 
throne  of  glory.  Our  God  has  provided  on 
purpose  to  give.  He  invites  us  to  come  that 
we  may  receive.  He  gives  grace  upon  grace. 
He  is  never  weary  of  bestowing,  though  we  arc 
of  asking.  We  dishonor  Him  when  we  ask 
doubtfully,  when  we  ask  for  small  matters ;  He 
bids  us  ask  in  faith,  nothing  doubting  ;  to  open 
our  mouths  wide  that  He  may  fill  them.  Grace 
comprises  all  we  need,  to  pardon  our  sins, 
sanctify  our  natures,  conquer  our  foes,  bear  our 
trials,  or  perform  our  duties.  If  we  have  not,  it 
is  because  we  ask  not ;  or  because  we  ask  amiss, 
to  consume  it  on  our  lusts.  There  is  grace  for 
us  this  morning;  let  us  apply  for  it,  expect  to 
receive  it,  and  determine  to  use  it  for  God's 
glory  and  the  good  of  souls.  He  will  give 
grace  and  glory,  and  no  good  thing  will  He 
withhold  from  them  that  walk  uprightly.  They 
that  seek  the  Lord  shall  not  want  any  good 
thing.  Ask,  and  you  shall  receive ;  seek,  and 
vou  shall  find.  He  giveth  liberally  and  upbraid- 
eth  not. 

Transporting  truth — amazing  word ! 
"What !  grace  and  glory  from  the  Lord  I 
Oh,  may  I  feel  the  promise  true, 
Fuliiird  in  grar«  and  glory  too  ! 

145 


MAY   21. 

Take  heed  to  your  spirit.     Mai.  ii.  15. 

The  spirit  of  the  believer  should  be  character- 
ized by  forbearance,  humility,  and  love  ;  he  is 
exhorted  to  put  away  all  anger,  wrath,  clamor, 
evil-speaking,  and  malice ;  and  to  put  on  bowels 
of  mercy,  kindness,  humbleness  of  mind,  meek- 
ness, long-suffering,  and  to  be  ready  to  forgive. 
A  bitter,  contentious,  censorious  spirit,  is  just 
the  opposite  of  the  Spirit  of  Christ ;  and  an  un- 
forgiving person  cannot  be  a  Christian,  for  Jesus 
has  said,  "  Except  ye  forgive  men  their  tres- 
passes, neither  will  my  heavenly  Father  forgive 
you."  Take  heed  then  to  your  spirit ;  lest  it  be 
said,  "  Ye  know  not  what  manner  of  spirit  ye 
are  of."  Learn  of  Jesus  ;  He  was  meek  and 
lowly  ;  patient  and  forbearing  ;  kind  to  His  ene- 
mies, and  ready  to  forgive.  A  proud,  conten- 
tious, overbearing  disciple,  cannot  expect  to  have 
fellowship  with  a  humble,  lowly,  and  broken- 
hearted Master.  Beloved,  let  us  watch  over  our 
spirits  ;  he  that  rules  his  own  spirit,  does  more 
than  he  that  conquers  a  city;  and  a  spirit,  that 
is  not  under  control,  is  like  a  city  with  the  walls 
and  gates  broken  down ;  open  to  the  enemy  on 
every  side. 


Come,  blessed  Spirit,  heavenly  Dove, 

Descend  on  balmy  wings ; 
Come,  tune  my  passions  all  to  love. 
And  strike  the  peaceful  strings  : 
Let  every  action,  thought,  and  word, 
Bring  honor  to  my  holy  Lord. 
146 


MAY    2  2. 

If  ye  shall  ask  aiitjthing  in  my  name,  I  will  do  it. 
John  xiv.  14. 

This  is  the  word  of  Jesus  to  us  this  morning  ; 
it  is  intended  to  encourage  and  embolden  us  at 
the  throne  of  grace,  and  to  comfort  us  under  all 
our  privations  and  wants.  Jesus  has  all  power 
in  heaven  and  in  earth  ;  all  things  are  delivered 
unto  Him  by  the  Father.  He  has  a  large  store, 
and  a  kind  and  tender  heart.  Let  us  therefore 
go  to  Him  with  our  wants,  that  He  may  sup- 
ply them ;  with  our  fears,  that  He  may  quell 
them:  with  our  sins,  that  He  may  pardon  and 
subdue  them  ;  with  everything  that  troubles  us, 
or  is  likely  to  harm  us.  Let  us  go  to  Him  with 
confidence.  He  says,  "  What  wilt  thou  that  I 
shall  do  for  thee  ?  If  ye  ask  anything  that  will 
do  you  good,  promote  my  cause,  or  glorify  my 
name,  I  will  do  it.  Be  not  afraid  to  ask,  for  I 
am  omnipotent ;  do  not  doubt,  for  I  give  you  my 
word ;  I  will  do  it."  Oh,  believer,  what  a 
friend  is  Jesus !  how  kind  !  how  gracious  ! 
Never  complain,  never  despond,  never  be  cast 
down,  while  Jesus  is  thy  Friend.  He  is,  and 
will  be  thy  friend  forever.  Oh,  make  a  friend 
of  Him ;  visit  Him  daily  ;  trust  Him  implicitly  ; 
and  follow  Him  fully.  Make  Him  your  all  in 
all.     He  is  worthy.     He  will  not  deceive. 

Jesus,  my  Lord,  I  look  to  Thee  ; 
Where  else  can  helpless  sinners  go  1 
Thy  Vjoundless  love  shall  set  nie  free 
From  all  my  wretchedness  and  vroc. 

U1 


MAY   23. 

We  look  for  the  Saviour.     Phil.  iii.  20. 

Our  beloved  Saviour  is  now  at  the  right  hand 
of  God.  He  waits,  expecting  His  enemies  to  be 
made  His  footstool.  He  will  come  again ;  the 
time  is  hastening  on,  and  we  should  be  living  in 
expectation  of  His  appearing.  The  Christian 
posture  is  that  of  waiting,  looking,  hasting  to 
the  coming  of  the  day  of  God.  He  will  come 
the  second  time,  as  certainly  as  He  did  the  first. 
He  will  come  as  a  thief  in  the  night.  He  will 
come  in  His  glory,  and  all  the  holy  angels  with 
Him.  He  will  come  to  reign,  to  reward  His 
people,  and  to  punish  His  foes.  Let  us  not  be 
slothful,  careless,  or  indifferent  about  the  coming 
of  our  Lord  ;  He  comes  for  our  salvation.  Let 
us  look  for  Him  daily,  with  earnest  desire,  ar- 
dent hope,  fervent  love,  importunate  prayer,  and 
diligent  preparation.  When  He  comes,  the 
earth  will  be  delivered  from  the  bondage  of  cor- 
ruption, into  the  glorious  liberty  of  the  children 
of  God  ;  the  groans  of  creation  will  be  silenced, 
the  prayers  of  the  Lord's  people  be  answered, 
and  crowns  of  righteousness  bestowed.  Let 
us  abide  in  Him,  that  we  may  have  confi- 
ence,  and  not  be  ashamed  before  Him  at  His 
coming. 

Lo  !  He  comes,  with  clouds  descending, 

Once  for  favor'd  sinners  slain  ; 

Tliousand  thousand  saints  attending, 

Swell  the  triumph  of  His  train : 

Hallelujah ! 
Jesud  comes,  and  comes  to  reign. 
148 


MAY    2  4. 

The  enemy.    Luke  x.  18. 

The  Christian  has  many  foes,  but  there  is  one 
who  is  emphatically  called,  "  The  enemy."  He 
is  the  god  of  this  world ;  all  worship  him, 
except  those  whom  Jesus  has  delivered  from 
him.  He  is  the  prince  of  the  power  of  the  air, 
he  rules  over  and  works  in  all  unbelievers.  He 
is  a  subtle  serpent,  endeavoring  to  deceive  ;  a 
roaring  lion,  seeking  to  devour.  He  has  the 
power  of  death.  He  gains  access  to  our  hearts, 
and  is  always  attempting  to  lead  us  astray.  He 
is  well  versed  in  Scripture,  and  will  often  quote 
it,  in  order  to  misapply  it ;  he  will  use  one  part 
to  fill  us  with  terror,  another  to  lead  us  to 
make  light  of  sin.  He  is  always  planning  how 
he  shall  injure  us,  and  is  incessantly  trying  to 
draw  us  from  God.  Beloved,  there  is  no  safety 
for  us  but  at  the  feet  of  Jesus  ;  it  is  only  as  we 
abide  in  Him,  and  walk  with  Him,  that  we  can 
overcome  Satan.  Our  weapons  are  the  blood  of 
the  Lamb,  and  the  word  of  the  divine  testi- 
mony  ;  faith  seizes  the  perfect  work  of  Christ  as 
its  shield,  and  the  word  of  God  as  its  sword, 
and  thus  overcomes  the  infernal  foe.  Let  us 
put  on  the  whole  armor  of  God. 


Jesus  hath  died  for  you ; 

What  can  His  love  -withstand  ? 
Believe,  hold  f;ist  your  shield,  and  who 

Shall  pluck  you  from  His  hand  ? 
You  shall  o'ercome  through  Jesus'  blood, 
And  stand  complote  before  your  God. 

149 


MAY    25. 

Certainly  I  will  be  with  thee.     Exod.  iii.  12. 

It  is  a  great  honor  to  be  favored  with  the 
presence  of  Jehovah :  but  in  every  enterprise 
for  His  glory,  in  every  duty  required  in  His 
word,  in  every  dangerous  part  of  the  pilgrim's 
path,  in  every  trouble  in  this  land  of  strangers, 
He  has  promised  to  be  with  us.  His  presence 
is  to  encourage,  strengthen,  protect,  and  prosper 
us.  This  promise  should  arm  us  against  fear, 
nerve  the  mind  against  opposition,  and  em- 
bolden us  in  a  good  cause.  Beloved,  has  God 
promised  to  be  with  us  ?  Let  us  th-en  seek  to 
realize  His  presence;  never  let  us  be  satisfied 
with  any  religion,  without  the  Lord's  presence. — 
If  God  be  with  us  we  shall  be  successful ;  all 
He  requires  He  will  provide  ;  and  display  in 
our  experience  the  exceeding  riches  of  His 
grace.  His  presence  is  sure  to  His  people ; 
He  is  not  always  perceived  by  sense,  but 
certainly  He  is  present;  for  though  heaven  and 
earth  may  pass  away,  one  jot  or  tittle  of  His 
word  shall  in  no  wise  pass  away ;  all  must  be 
fulfilled.  Let  us  then  seek  and  expect  the 
presence  of  Jehovah  this  day ;  and  rejoice  that 
He  has  said,  "  I  will  never  leave  thee,  nor 
forsake  thee." 

Then  rest,  my  soul,  upon  the  Lord, 
Believe  and  plead  His  faitliful  word ; 
He  will  be  with  thee.  He  will  guide, 
And  for  thy  every  want  provide  : 
Then  trust  His  faithful  love  and  power. 
In  every  gloomy  trying  hour. 
150 


MAY   2  6. 

Let  a  man  examine  himself.     1  Cor.  xi.  28. 

Tins  is  necessary,  that  we  may  know  upon 
what  we  are  resting ;  and  whether  we  are  grow- 
ing or  declining.  Let  us  examine  this  morning 
upon  what  foundation  are  we  building  for  eter- 
nal life ;  and  from  what  does  our  hope  arise  ? 
What  is  the  source  of  our  satisfaction,  pleasure, 
and  peace  ?  What  do  we  possess  to  prove  the 
reality  of  our  religion  ?  Have  we  been  quick- 
ened by  the  Holy  Spirit  ?  Is  Christ  our  life, 
and  is  He  living  in  us  ?  Are  we  enlightened  to 
see  sin,  in  its  nature,  character,  and  actings  ? 
Have  we  living  faith,  which  receives  Christ ; 
believes  His  word ;  and  lives  to  Him  ?  Have 
we  a  good  hope  through  grace  ?  Is  the  love  of 
Grod  shed  abroad  in  our  hearts  by  the  Holy 
Ghost?  Do  we  love  Grod  because  He  first 
loved  us,  and  walk  with  Him  in  peace  and 
holiness  ?  Have  we  the  earnest  and  witness  of 
the  Spirit  in  our  hearts  ?  Are  we  conflicting 
with  sin,  and  praying  to  be  delivered  from  it,  as 
from  a  tyrant,  a  plague,  the  most  fearful  evil  ? 
Let  us  examine  carefully,  deliberately,  prayer- 
fully ;  taking  God's  word  for  our  rule  and  guide. 
Let  us  prove  our  own  work,  so  shall  we  have  re- 
joicing in  ourselves  alone. 

Searcher  of  hearts !  oh,  search  me  still ; 

The  secrets  of  my  soul  reveal ; 

My  fears  remove :  let  me  appear 

To  God  and  my  own  conscience,  clear : 

Each  evidence  of  grace  impart. 

And  deeply  sanctify  my  heart ! 

151 


MAY  2  7. 

And  He  blessed  him  there.     Gen.  xxxii.  9. 

Poor  Jacob,  full  of  fear  and  alarm,  retired  to 
plead  with  his  God  ;  he  wept  and  made  sup- 
plication, he  had  power  with  God  and  pre- 
vailed. "And  he  blessed  him  there."  Our 
God  delights  to  bless  us  ;  therefore  He  began 
so  early,  for  He  blessed  us  with  all  spiritual 
blessings  in  Jesus,  before  the  foundation  of  the 
world ;  He  gave  us  grace  in  His  Son,  before  He 
gave  us  a  being :  but  yet  He  will  have  us  plead 
with  Him,  and  weep  before  Him.  He  is  "  The 
BLESSING  God."  There  never  was  a  want  that 
ever  pierced  the  heart  of  fallen  humanity,  or 
met  the  omniscient  eye  of  Jehovah,  but  that 
want  was  anticipated,  and  provided  for,  in  the 
person  and  fulness  of  Christ.  And  however 
great  our  conflicts  and  trials  may  be,  we  can 
have  no  reason  to  despond,  for  grace  is  given 
us  ;  and  grace  always  goes  hand  in  hand  with 
omnipotence.  Our  heavenly  Father's  love  can- 
not fail,  our  divine  Saviour's  fulness  cannot  be 
exhausted,  the  faithful  promise  cannot  be  broken  ; 
let  us  therefore  plead  in  the  valley  of  Achor, 
wrestle  on  the  battle-plain,  and  it  shall  again  be 
said,  "  He  blessed  him  there."  Oh  for  the 
Spirit  of  Prayer. 

Lord,  let  me  know  the  grace  below, 

To  all  believers  given  : 
Oh,  bid  me  feel  thy  love,  and  go 

In  perfect  peace  to  heaven  1 


152 


MAY   2§. 
In  all  till/  ways  acknowledge  Him.     Piov.  iii.  6. 

Br.LovED,  we  are  the  Lord's,  the  creatures  of  His 
power,  the  purchase  of  His  blood,  the  subjects 
of  His  grace.  He  has  set  His  love  upon  us,  em- 
ployed His  wisdom  for  us,  and  is  deeply  inter- 
ested in  all  that  concerns  us.  Everythino-  we 
do,  should  be  done  with  a  view  to  His  glory ; 
and  in  everything  by  prayer  and  supplication 
with  thanksgiving,  we  should  let  our  requests 
be  made  known  unto  Him.  Everything  should 
be  mentioned  at  His  throne  ;  His  presence,  di- 
rection, and  blessing,  should  be  sought  in  refer- 
ence to  every  circumstance  of  our  lives.  Our 
misery  can  never  exceed  His  mercy,  or  our  ap- 
plication at  his  throne  find  His  ear  pre-occu- 
pied.  He  is  our  Father,  and  as  such  ought  to 
be  consulted ;  He  is  our  God,  and  ought  to  be 
honored.  We  should  ask  of  Him,  and  ask 
with  the  whole  heart ;  for  He  that  withdraws 
his  heart  in  asking,  will  find  Grod  withdraw 
His  hand  in  giving.  Acknowledging  God  in  all 
things,  will  produce  a  steady  peace  of  mind; 
preserve  us  from  many  temptations ;  and 
strengthen  our  faith  in  Him.  He  that  always 
acknowledges  God,  will  find  that  God  always 
acknowledges  him. 

Stretch  o'er  my  head  Tliy  guardian  wings, 
Secure  my  soul,  O  King  of  kings ! 

My  shield  and  refuge  be : 
Thy  grace  and  mercy,  Lord,  display. 
Through  Christ  the  Life,  the  Truth,  the  Way, 

That  I  may  come  to  Thee  ! 

153 


MAY   29. 

Aiul  he  found  in  Him.     Phil.  iii.  9. 

To  be  in  Christ,  is  to  be  united  to  Him  by  faith 
and  love ;  and  is  of  the  utmost  importance. 
Apart  from  Christ  we  are  wretched,  miserable, 
poor,  blind,  and  naked  ;  united  to  Christ  we  are 
immensely  rich  ;  immutably  safe  ;  exalted  to  the 
highest  honor  ;  and  shall  appear  without  a  fault 
before  the  throne  of  God.  If  we  are  in  Christ, 
or  one  with  Christ,  we  are  justified  by  His  obe- 
dience, as  the  debtor  is  cleared  by  the  payment 
made  by  his  surety  ;  we  are  sanctified  through 
Him,  as  the  vessel  is  cleansed  in  the  fountain ; 
we  are  protected  by  Him,  as  Noah  was  in  the 
ark;  we  are  preserved  from  judicial  proceedings, 
as  the  manslayer  in  the  city  of  refuge  ;  and  are 
exalted  to  honor  as  the  BumE  of  the  King  Eter- 
nal, Immortal,  the  only  wise  Grod.  Well  may 
the  Apostle  desire  "  to  be  found  in  Him."  No 
mind  can  conceive,  no  tongue  can  declare  the 
blessedness  that  flows  from  being  one  with 
Christ.  Let  us  therefore,  beloved,  ask,  this 
morning,  "Am  I  in  Christ  at  present?  Am  I 
living  with  Him  as  His  faithful  bride  ;  for  Him 
as  His  devoted  servant ;  upon  Him  as  His  de- 
pendant child  ?  Do  I  renounce  all  for  Christ  ? 
Can  I  say,  I  am  crucified  with  Christ  ?  The 
world  is  crucified  unto  me,  and  I  unto  the 
world  ?" 

Yes,  yes,  I  must  and  will  esteem 
All  things  but  loss  for  Jesus'  sake ; 
Oh,  may  my  soul  be  found  in  Him, 
And  of  His  righteousness  partake. 
154 


MAY   30. 

All  my  springs  are  in  Thee.     Psalm  Ixxxvii.  T. 

Jesus  is  the  fountain  of  living  waters  ;  the  wells 
of  salvation  are  found  in  His  person,  work,  and 
word ;  He  saj^s,  "  If  any  man  thirst,  let  him 
come  unto  me  and  drink."  The  springs  of 
oomfort,  peace,  and  salvation,  are  all  in  Him; 
and  in  Him  for  us ;  therefore  called  our  springs. 
The  waters  cleanse  from  all  defilement ;  refresh 
the  faint  and  weary ;  and  satisfy  the  longing 
soul.  The  springs  bespeak  plenitude — whoso- 
ever will  may  come  and  take ;  for  they  are 
never  dry.  We  are  absolutely  dependant  on 
Jesus,  this  is  our  mercy  ;  we  are  not  absolutely 
dependant  on  any  besides,  this  is  our  happiness. 
Our  desires  should  concentrate  in  Him ;  our 
affections  should  be  fixed  upon  Him ;  and  our 
expectations  should  be  only  from  Him.  In 
Jesus  is  all  possible  variety ;  He  can  do,  and 
bestow  all  we  can  possibly  want ;  for  it  hath 
pleased  the  Father  that  in  Him  should  all  ful- 
ness dwell.  If  all  our  springs  are  in  Jesus,  let 
us  not  then  look  to  any  other ;  but  let  us  with 
joy  draw  water  out  of  the  fountains  of  the  Sa- 
viour. Let  us  ask,  and  He  will  give  us  living 
WATER  ;  that  we  may  thirst  no  more. 

To  •wlioiu,  dear  Jesus,  oh,  to  whom 

Shall  needy  sinners  flee, 
But  to  Tliyself,  who  bid'st  us  come  ? 

Our  springs  are  all  in  Thee : 
Now  fill  my  soul  with  Thy  pure  love. 
And  raise  my  thoughts  and  hopes  above. 

155 


MAY   31. 

Tliejust  shall  come  out  of  trouble.     Prov.  xiL  13. 

The  Lord's  people  are  justified  by  grace,  through 
faith,  in  the  righteousness  of  Jesus;  and  all 
who  are  thus  justified  are  created  anew,  have 
immortal  principles  of  holiness  and  justice  im- 
planted in  their  hearts,  so  that  they  hate  sin,  fol- 
low holiness,  and  walk  uprightly.  Sin  has  not 
dominion  over  them,  nor  will  they  be  slaves  to 
lust.  They  meet  with  many  troubles,  they  have 
to  pass  through  fire  and  water,  but  they  shall 
come  out  into  a  wealthy  place.  They  shall  not 
perish  in  their  affliction,  for  the  Lord  upholdeth 
them  with  His  hand.  Beloved,  look  beyond 
your  present  trials ;  remember  if  you  suffer  as 
a  Christian,  you  suffer  with  Christ ;  and  if  you 
suffer  you  shall  also  reign  with  Him.  Your 
God  is  able  to  deliver ;  He  has  promised  to  do 
so ;  trust  in  Him  without  wavering  ;  yield  not 
to  temptation ;  avoid  the  appearance  of  evil ; 
and  your  Grod  will  bring  you  out  of  trouble. 
He  will  bring  forth  your  righteousness  as  the 
light,  and  your  judgment  as  the  noonday.  You 
shall  also  forget  your  misery,  or  remember  it  as 
waters  that  pass  away.  Present  troubles  will 
end  in  everlasting  peace. 

Millions  who  now  His  throne  surround, 

Here  sought  relief,  here  mercy  found ; 

The  Lord  dispell'd  their  gloomy  fears, 

Heald  all  their  wounJa,  and  dried  their  tears. 

And  thou  slialt  also  mercy  find, 

For  God  is  faithful,  just,  and  kind. 

166 


JUNE    1. 
The  Lord  our  righteousness.    Jer.  xxiii.  6. 

Jesus  is  Jehovah,  the  self-existent,  eternal,  ami 
immutable  G-od.  He  is  our  righteousness.  To 
this  end  He  assumed  our  nature ;  came  into 
our  place ;  labored,  suffered,  bled,  and  died 
in  our  stead.  We  have  no  righteousness  by 
nature,  but  we  have  the  righteousness  of  God 
by  grace.  "  Their  righteousness  is  of  me,  saith 
the  Lord."  Jesus  completed  for  us  all  that 
was  necessary  to  justify  us ;  He  made  an  end 
of  sin ;  He  magnified  the  law  and  made  it 
honorable ;  He  brought  in  everlasting  right- 
eousness ;  and  now  He  clothes  us  with  the  gar- 
ments of  salvation,  and  covers  us  with  the  robe 
of  righteousness.  In  Him  we  possess  all  jus- 
tice can  demand,  or  G-od  require,  for  our  full 
and  eternal  justification.  This  portion  is  not 
necessary  merely  for  one  day,  but  every  day; 
it  silences  an  accusing  conscience,  confounds 
►Satan,  strengthens  the  soul,  and  glorifies  G-od. 
Let  us  look  to-day,  all  the  day,  and  every  day 
to  Jesus,  as  "  the  Lord  our  righteousness." 
Let  us  go  to  duty,  to  conflict,  to  trials,  in  the 
strength  of  the  Lord  ;  making  mention  of  His 
righteousness,  even  of  His  only.  This  is  our 
plea  at  the  throne  of  grace,  our  song  in  the 
house  of  our  pilgrimage,  and  our  confidence  in 
the  prospect  of  death. 

Saviour  divine,  we  knov?  thy  name, 
And  in  that  name  we  trust; 
%hou  art  the  Lord  our  Righteousness, 
Thou  art  our  joy  and  boast. 

157 


JUNE   2. 
I  will  deal  loell  loith  thee.     Gen.  xxxii.  9. 

So  the  Lord  promised  Jacob,  and  the  promises 
made  unto  our  fathers,  He  will  fulfil  unto  us 
their  children.  But  such  a  promise  does  not 
exclude  great  trials,  sore  temptations,  deep  per- 
sonal afflictions,  fiery  persecutions,  poverty,  dis- 
appointments, and  perplexity  ;  all  these  things 
may  happen  unto  us,  and  yet  the  Lord  deal  well 
with  us.  The  promise  secures  the  sanctification 
of  our  troubles,  the  communication  of  grace,  de- 
liverance from  real  evils,  the  supply  of  all  wants, 
and  the  satisfying  of  our  best  desires.  Is  not 
this  enough,  to  know  that  Jehovah  will  deal 
well  with  us,  in  sickness  and  health ;  in  life 
and  in  death ;  in  time  and  through  eternity  ? 
This  promise  is  Jehovah's  bond,  the  believer's 
plea,  the  ground  of  the  Christian's  confidence, 
a  reason  for  contentment  and  gratitude,  and  the 
cause  of  our  enemies'  confusion.  Jacob,  though 
tried,  found  the  Lord  faithful,  and  so  shall  we. 
Let  us  therefore  rejoice  that  our  Grod  has  said, 
"  I  will  deal  well  with  thee.  I  will  make  all 
my  goodness  pass  before  thee.  I  will  save  thee 
with  an  everlasting  salvation.  I  will  be  thy  God 
and  thy  glory," 

Jesus  !  in  -whom  but  Thee  above, 

Cdn  I  repose  my  trust,  my  love  ; 

Thy  counsels  and  upholding  care. 

My  safety  and  my  comfort  are ; 

And  Thou  shalt  guide  me  all  my  days,  ^ 

Till  glory  crown  the  work  of  grace. 

158 


JUNE    3. 

The  exeeediny  riches  of  His  grace.     Eph.  ii.  7. 

Jehovah  glories  in  His  grace.  It  is  His  riches 
— His  wealth.  All  its  riches  are  intended  for 
ns,  to  be  expended  upon  us.  They  are  all  treas- 
ured up  in  Jesus  to  be  received  by  us.  They 
are  promised  and  presented  to  us.  They  ex- 
ceed our  thoughts,  our  expectations,  our  faith ; 
we  do  not  believe  that  God  has  provided  and 
promised  so  much  for  our  good  as  He  has;  and 
therefore  we  do  not  ask  for,  and  expect  so  much. 
Let  us  this  day  think  of  the  exceeding  riches 
OF  GRACE.  Jesus  was  the  gift  of  grace,  so  was 
the  Holy  Spirit,  and  so  are  all  spiritual  bless- 
ings. Grrace  includes,  and  is  the  source  from 
which  flows  all  the  church  has  received,  is  re- 
ceiving, and  will  receive  throughout  eternity. 
Grrace  freely  gives,  but  never  sells.  It  has  a 
bountiful  eye,  a  tender  heart,  and  a  liberal  hand. 
We  are  not  straitened  in  Grod,  but  in  our  own 
hearts.  Oh,  that  we  did  but  believe  what  God 
has  revealed  in  reference  to  the  riches  of 
grace,  and  expect  to  receive  according  to  His 
most  liberal  promises!  There  is  an  abundance 
of  grace,  and  it  is  for  us ;  for  us  this  morning, 
for  us  whenever  we  apply.  Let  us  therefore 
have  grace,  whereby  we  may  serve  God  accept- 
ably, with  reverence  and  godly  fear. 

Amazing  grace !  how  sweet  the  sound ! 

That  saved  a  wretch  Uke  rae  ! 
1  once  was  lost,  but  now  am  found ; 

Was  blind,  but  now  I  see. 

159 


JUNE   4. 

His  kindness  towards  us.    Eph.  iL  1. 

AViiAT  a  subject  is  the  kindness  of  Grod  towards 
us  !  Let  us  think  of  it,  as  it  appears  in  the 
place  and  circumstances  of  our  birth ;  in  happy 
Britain,  not  in  a  heathen  land.  In  our  educa- 
tion and  preservation.  Especially  in  our  regen- 
eration, that  we  were  born  again,  not  of  the 
will  of  the  flesh,  nor  of  blood,  but  of  God. 
How  many,  born  in  the  same  place,  about  the 
same  time,  and  educated  in  the  same  school, 
have  been  allowed  to  pass  out  of  time  into  eter- 
nity, carnal,  and  under  the  curse  of  G-od  ;  or 
are  living  in  that  state !  AVhy  were  we  distin- 
guished ?  Called  by  grace  ?  Justified  from  all 
things  in  the  righteousness  of  Jesus?  Kept  by 
the  power  of  God  ?  Supplied  according  to  the 
promises?  "Walking  with  God?  Looking  for 
the  coming  of  Jesus  with  hope,  holy  longing, 
and  steady  faith  ?  Having  the  promise  of  the 
life  that  now  is,  and  of  that  which  is  to  come  ? 
Warranted  to  say,  "  All  things  are  mine,  for  I 
am  Christ's,  and  Christ  is  God's?"  Oh,  how 
great  is  the  goodness  of  our  God  !  How  un- 
searchable His  grace !  His  kindness  to  us  is 
wonderful ! 


Who  can  have  greater  cause  to  eing, 
"Who  greater  cause  to  bless, 

ITian  we,  the  children  of  a  King, 
Tlian  we  who  Christ  possess  ? 

Our  all  we  to  His  kindness  owe. 

And  grateful  praise  should  ever  flow. 
160 


JUNE   5. 
Lord,  what  wilt  thou  have  me  to  do  P     Acts  ix.  6. 

A  VERY  proper  inquiry  to  bring  to  the  Lord's 
throne,  for  all  the  Lord's  people  should  be  cm- 
ployed  in  the  Lamb's  vineyard,  for  the  Lord's 
glory.  There  is  something  for  each  of  us  to  do, 
and  something  for  us  to  do  to-day.  Jesus  is 
our  Master,  He  has  a  right  to  reign  over  us, 
and  employ  us  as  He  will.  He  should  be  obey- 
ed. We  especially  who  are  so  deeply  indebted, 
should  obey  Him  willingly — cheerfully — habit- 
ually. Is  our  enmity  subdued  ?  How  can  we 
manifest  it,  but  by  seeking  to  be  in  His  em- 
ployment? Have  we  faith,  love,  hope,  humility, 
peace,  gratitude?  Are  we  not  then  desirous  of 
obeying  Him,  who  gave  us  all  these  blessings  ? 
"We  ought  to  be  employed — always  employed — 
and  so  employed  as  if  every  day  were  our  last. 
That  is  the  best  employment,  which  we  can  look 
at  with  satisfaction  on  a  death-bed  ;  of  which  we 
shall  not  be  ashamed  at  the  day  of  judgment. 
Are  you  doing  for  Jesus  ?  Are  you  doing  in  the 
spirit  of  Jesus?  Beware  lest  you  put  your  do- 
ings in  the  place  of  Jesus ;  do  all  you  can,  and 
then  lay  all  you  do  at  the  feet  of  Jesus. 


Never  did  men  by  faith  divine 

To  selfishness  or  sloth  incline ; 

The  Christian  works  with  all  his  power, 

And  grieves  that  he  can  work  no  more  : 

Commits  his  works  to  God  alone, 

And  seeks  His  will  before  his  own. 

161 


JUNE  e. 

He  hath  done  all  things  well.    Mark  vii.  37. 

This  was  the  testimony  of  the  multitude  con- 
cerning Jesus.  He  did  many  things,  but  He  did 
everything  well.  Cannot  we  bear  the  same 
testimony  this  morning  ?  He  called  us  by  His 
grace  ;  and  when  we  reflect  upon  the  means,  the 
manner,  and  the  period,  must  we  not  say,  "  He 
did  it  well  ?"  He  has  tried  us  in  many  ways  ; 
but  when  we  think  of  His  design,  the  mercies 
He  mingled  with  the  afllictions,  and  the  deliver- 
ance He  granted  us  out  of  them,  must  we  not 
say,  "He  hath  done  all  things  well  ?"  If  we 
look  back,  and  see  Him  standing  forward  as  our 
Surety  with  the  Father  in  eterniny  ;  or  if  we 
behold  Him  taking  our  nature,  bearing  our  sins, 
procuring  our  righteousness,  and  sending  His 
Holy  Spirit  to  sanctify  and  save  us  ;  must  we 
not  say,  "  He  hath  done  all  things  well  ?"  And 
when  our  mansions  are  prepared,  our  bodies 
raised  from  the  grave,  and  our  persons  are  per- 
fectly conformed  to  His  image ;  when  we  hear 
Him  say,  "  Come,  inherit  the  kingdom ;"  oh, 
with  what  rapture,  gratitude,  and  love  shall  we 
shout,   "He  hath  done  all  things  well  !" 

How  sovereign,  wonderful,  and  free, 
Is  all  His  love  to  sinful  nae  ; 
He  pluck"d  ine  as  a  brand  from  hell ! — 
My  Jesus  hath  done  all  things  well : 
And  since  my  soul  has  known  His  love, 
What  mercies  has  He  made  me  prove ; 
Mercies  which  all  my  praise  excel — 
My  Jesus  li  rh  done  all  things  well. 
162 


JUNE   7. 

Ye  are  my  witnesses,  saith  the  Lord. 
Isaiah  xliii.  12. 

"We  are  to  witness  to  the  truth,  power,  and 
sweetness  of  religion  ;  to  the  goodness,  holiness, 
and  faithfulness  of  Grod.  We  are  to  witness  to 
the  world,  by  our  spirit,  testimony,  and  con- 
duct ;  we  are  to  witness  to  poor,  doubting, 
fearful  souls.  Our  witness  should  be  unequivo- 
cal, and  should  be  borne  with  courage,  constan- 
cy, and  love.  Our  testimony  should  be  from 
experience.  Do  we  know  the  Lord?  Do  wc 
daily  experience  the  power  of  truth  in  our 
hearts  ?  Does  it  free  us  from  slavish  fear,  the 
love  of  the  world,  and  the  dominion  of  sin  ? 
Can  we  say.  We  have  known  and  believed  the 
love  which  Grod  hath  to  us — Grod  is  love  ?  Are 
we  saying  to  those  around  us,  Oh,  taste  and 
see  that  the  Lord  is  good ;  there  is  no  want  to 
them  that  fear  Him?  Suppose  we  should  be 
called  to  bear  witness  before  judges,  or  kings ; 
in  the  prison  or  at  the  stake ;  how  would  it  be 
with  us  then  ?  Could  we  witness  that  G-od  is 
good  and  gracious ;  that  He  is  enough  to  jnake 
us  happy  ;  if  He  were  to  strip  us  as  He  did  Job, 
or  try  us  as  He  did  Paul  ?     He  says,  "  Ye  are 

MY  AVITNESSES." 

Give  nie  to  bear  Thy  easy  yoke, 
And  every  moment  ■watch  and  pray ; 
And  still  to  things  eternal  look, 
And  hasten  to  Thy  glorious  day  ! 
I  would  Tliy  daily  -witness  be, 
And  prove  that  I  am  one  with  Thee. 

163 


JUNE    8. 

Jf  Ood  be  for  us,  who  can  be  against  us? 
Romans  viii.  31. 

Beloved,  if  we  are  believers  in  Jesus,  all  the 
perfections  of  Jehovah's  nature  are  arrayed  for 
our  defence  and  safety.  He  is  engaged  by 
covenant,  by  promise,  and  by  oath,  to  support, 
supply,  and  befriend  us.  He  is  for  us.  En- 
gaged in  our  cause.  Opposed  to  our  enemies. 
Pledged  to  deliver  us  in  six  troubles,  and  not 
forsake  us  in  the  seventh.  We  may  challenge 
our  foes,  for  God  is  with  us ;  what  then  is  man  ? 
What  devils  ?  We  may  admire  our  safety, 
happiness,  and  honor ;  Grod,  the  Lord  G-od  om- 
nipotent, is  our  ally.  We  should  be  grateful, 
for  what  is  our  desert  ?  What  do  we  possess  ? 
What  were  our  expectations  ?  What  has  God 
promised?  We  may  triumph  in  Christ,  but 
only  in  Christ.  If  God  be  for  us,  then  supplies 
shall  certainly  be  sent  us.  If  God  be  for  us, 
men  or  devils  shall  never  prevail  over  us.  If 
God  be  for  us  we  shall  overcome  the  world,  con- 
quer death,  and  eternally  inherit  glory.  But 
God  is  for  us,  who  then  shall  harm  us  ?  What 
shall  alarm  or  terrify  us  ?  God  is  ours  ;  we  are 
God's.  This  is  our  honor,  our  happiness,  our 
boast  and  glory. 

Yes,  God  is  above  men,  devils,  and  sin, 
My  Jesus's  love  the  battle  shall  win : 
On  His  mighty  power  I'll  daily  rely, 
All  evil  before  His  presence  shall  fly : 
I  fear  no  denial,  no  danger  I  fear, 
Nor  start  from  a  trial,  while  Jesus  is  near. 

164 


JUNE    9. 

Let  Israel  hope  in  the  Lord.    Psalm  cxxx.  7. 

This  title  is  applied  to  all  the  Lord's  people ;  it 
sets  forth  their  dignity, — they  are  Princes  ;  it 
refers  to  their  experience — they  wrestle  with 
God  in  prayer,  and  they  prevail.  Despondency 
does  not  become  a  prince,  much  less  a  Christian. 
Our  God  is  "  The  God  of  Hope  :"  and  we 
should  hope  in  Him.  Israel  should  hope  in  His 
niercy — in  His  patience — in  His  provision — in 
His  plenteous  redemption.  They  should  hope 
for  light  in  darkness ;  for  strength  in  weakness  ; 
for  direction  in  perplexity;  for  deliverance  in 
danger  ;  for  victory  in  conflict ;  and  for  triumph 
in  death.  They  should  hope  in  God  confidently, 
because  He  has  promised;  prayerfully,  for  He 
loves  to  hear  from  us ;  obediently,  for  His  pre- 
cepts are  to  be  observed  by  us  ;  and  constantly, 
for  He  is  always  the  same.  Beloved,  let  not 
your  hope  rest  on  frames,  or  duties,  or  men,  or 
anything;  but  hope  in  the  Lord,  in  the  Lord 
only.  Israel's  God  is  at  all  times  Israel's  hope. 
The  hope  of  Israel  shall  never  be  disappointed. 
Therefore  hope  in  God,  for  it  is  good  that  a  man 
should  both  hope,  and  quietly  wait  for  the  salva- 
tion of  the  Lord. 

The  gospel  bears  my  spirit   up ; 
A  faithful  and  unchanging  God 
Lays  the  foundation  for  ray  hope, 
In  oaths,  and  promises,  and  blood ; 
Then,  O  my  soul,  still  hope  in  God, 
And  plead  tliy  Saviour's  precious  blood. 

165 


JUNE    10. 

I  am  Alpha  and  Omega.    Rev.  xxii.  13. 

Jesus  is  the  first  and  the  last.  He  began,  lie 
carries  on,  and  He  will  complete  the  great  work 
of  our  eternal  salvation.  He  was  the  first  ob- 
ject to  which  we  were  directed  to  look,  and  He 
will  be  the  last  we  shall  wish  to  see.  He  was 
the  first  subject  we  began  to  learn,  and  we  shall 
be  learning  Him  to  all  eternity.  He  is  first 
with  us  in  every  trial  and  trouble,  and  will 
never  leave  us  nor  forsake  us.  He  is  the  found- 
ation on  which  we  build,  and  He  will  be  for  a 
covering.  We  should  look  to  Him  first  in  every 
trouble,  and  go  to  Him  first  with  every  want. 
He  includes  all  that  is  good,  great,  and  glorious. 
He  that  hath  Jesus  hath  all  things.  Let  us  be- 
gin with  Jesus,  and  then  go  on  with  Jesus,  so 
shall  we  end  with  Jesus  :  and  a  blessed  ending 
it  will  be.  He  is  our  great  lesson,  and  we  have 
learned  nothing  to  purpose  until  we  know  Him. 
Oh,  to  know  Him,  and  the  power  of  His  resur- 
rection, and  the  fellowship  of  His  sufferings, 
and  to  be  made  conformable  to  His  death !  Let 
us  endeavor  to  learn  the  happy  art  of  looking 
to  Jesus,  expecting  from  Jesus,  and  glorifying 
Jesus  as  our  Alpha  and  Omega  from  day  to  day. 


Christ  is  my  hope,  my  strength,  my  guide, 
For  me  He  groan'd,  and  bled,  and  died ; 
Christ  is  tlie  source  of  all  my  bliss. 
My  wisdom  and  my  righteousness  : 
My  Saviour,  Brother,  faithful  Friend, 
On  Him  alone  I  now  dcpcid. 
166 


JUNE    11. 
The  Lord  is  my  portion.    Lam.  iii.  24. 

How  poor  is  the  worldling's  possession,  if  com- 
pared with  the  Christian's  portion  ;  it  is  but  for 
a  few  days ;  it  cannot  satisfy,  it  cannot  bless. 
But,  beloved,  Jehovah  hath  given  us  Himself; 
He  says,  "  I  am  your  inheritance."  We  are 
ever  with  Him,  and  all  He  has  is  ours.  His 
power  is  ours  to  support  us.  His  wisdom  to 
guide  us,  His  love  to  comfort  us.  His  mercy  to 
relieve  us,  His  goodness  to  supply  us.  His  jus- 
tice to  defend  us.  His  covenant  to  secure  us,  and 
His  heaven  to  receive  us.  He  is  a  suitable, 
sufficient,  and  immutable  portion.  We  are  to 
live  upon  Him,  draw  from  Him,  rejoice  in  Him, 
and  look  to  Him  for  all  we  need.  For  Him  we 
must  renounce  all  other ;  to  His  glory  all  our 
efforts  must  be  directed,  and  with  Him  we  must 
daily  walk.  Men  cannot  deprive  us  of  our  por- 
tion, fire  cannot  consume  it,  nor  rust  corrupt  it ; 
let  us  not  therefore  be  much  affected  by  any- 
thing that  occurs  below ;  if  the  streams  are 
dried,  the  fountain  remains ;  if  creatures  fail 
or  deceive  us,  our  G-od  is  the  portion  of  our 
inheritance  and  of  our  cup ;  He  maintains  our 
lot,  He  is  our  strength  and  our  portion  for- 
ever. 

Begone,  ye  gilded  vanities ; 

I  seek  the  only  good  ; 
To  real  bliss  my  wishes  rise, 

The  FAVOR  OF  MY  God  : 
Tliy  love,  my  God,  ray  portion  be. 
And  let  me  find  my  all  in  Thee. 

167 


JUNE    12. 

The  Lord  God  is  a  Sun  and  Shield.     Psalm  Ixxxiv.  11.    m 

To  Him  we  must  look  for  light,  comfort,  and 
fruitfulness.  He  is  our  light  and  our  salvation. 
He  will  not  leave  us  comfortless.  From  Him 
is  our  fruit  found.  The  people  who  know  Him, 
believe  Him,  and  walk  with  Him,  are  blessed ; 
He  giveth  light  in  darkness,  joy  in  sorrow,  and 
life  in  death.  He  is  our  defence;  from  Him 
we  must  expect  protection.  His  salvation  is 
our  shield ;  faith  lays  hold  of  it,  and  employs  it 
against  all  our  foes.  He  will  enlighten  and 
protect  us  ;  He  will  never  fail  us,  or  leave  us  to 
want  or  perish.  He  communicates  His  favors 
as  freely,  as  easily,  and  as  plentifully  as  the 
sun  sliiiies ;  there  is  enough  in  Him,  and  He 
will  cheerfully  bestow ;  let  us  therefore  wait 
upon  Him  this  day,  and  walk  in  the  light  of  His 
countenance.  Who  is  among  you  that  feareth 
the  Lord,  and  obeyeth  the  voice  of  His  ser- 
vant, that  walketh  in  darkness  and  hath  no 
light  ?  Let  him  trust  in  the  name  of  the  Lord, 
and  stay  upon  His  Grod.  His  heart  is  evermore 
towards  us.  His  promises  shall  be  fulfilled  to  us, 
and  He  will  glorify  every  perfection  of  His  na- 
ture in  us. 

Lord,  be  my  safety  and  defence, 

My  light,  my  joy,  my  bliss ; 
My  portion  in  the  world  to  come. 

My  confidence  in  this : 
Be  thou,  O  Lord,  my  Shield  and  Sun, 
As  I  the  path  of  duty  run. 

168 


JUNE    13. 
The  angel  of  the  Lord  stood  by.     Zech.  iil  5. 

Who  was  it  that  thus  stood  by  Joshua,  when 
Satan  accused  and  resisted  him  ;  when  his  filthy 
garments  bore  testimony  against  him,  and  he 
was  cited  to  appear  before  G-od  ?  Surely  it  was 
Jesus.  Jesus,  the  messenger  of  the  covenant ; 
the  minister  of  the  true  tabernacle,  which  Grod 
pitched,  and  not  man ;  the  angel  of  Jehovah's 
presence.  This  same  Jesus  stands  by  all  His 
people ;  He  stands  by  us.  He  stands  on  our 
side  in  prayer — in  trouble — in  temptation — in 
all  our  efforts  to  glorify  His  name.  He  stands 
by  to  instruct  us  in  the  will  of  Grod ;  to  help  us 
in  the  work  of  Grod;  to  enrich  us  with  che 
wealth  of  God  ;  and  to  watch  over  us  for  ;ood. 
Beloved,  whoever  leaves  us,  Jesus  still  stands 
by  us.  Our  eyes  should  always  be  fixed  upon 
Him.  We  ought  never  to  forget,  there  is  one 
witness  to  every  action ;  Jesus  stands  by  ob- 
serving. We  should  therefore  be  circumspect — 
grateful — and  courageous.  He  stands  at  the 
right  hand  of  the  poor,  to  save  him  from  those 
who  condemn  his  soul.  He  stands  ready  to 
help,  waiting  to  give,  determined  to  bless.  May 
we  always  realize  that  Jesus  stands  by. 


Look  up,  my  soul,  with  cbeerM  eye, 
See  where  the  great  Redeemer  stands, 
The  gloiious  Advocate  oo  high. 
With  precious  incense  in  His  hands ! 
On  Hiiu  alone  thy  hopes  recline : 
His  power  and  love  are  all  divine. 

169 


JUNE    14. 
As  thy  days,  so  shall  thy  strength  be.     Deut.  xxxiii.  25. 

No  man  can  possibly  tell  what  is  before  him  ; 
but  our  God  knoweth,  and  He  has  promised 
His  people  strength  proportioned  to  their  trials. 
We  should  not  be  anxious,  for  with  the  trial 
comes  the  strength.  Our  troubles  are  very 
generally  to  be  numbered  amongst  our  mercies. 
Temporal  prosperity,  without  a  special  blessing 
from  Grod,  will  prove  to  be  a  curse  ;  and  it  al- 
ways brings  a  solemn  responsibility  with  it, 
"We  always  have  found  our  God  faithful ;  He 
always  has  given  strength  according  to  the  day ; 
and  why  should  we  now  doubt  ?  We  may  look 
forward  and  suppose  the  worst,  and  then  say, 
"  I  will  trust  and  not  be  afraid  ;  for  the  Lord 
Jehovah  is  my  strength  and  my  song  ;  He  also 
is  become  my  salvation."  We  go  from  strength 
to  strength,  and  every  true  believer  shall  appear 
in  Zion  before  God.  He  will  perfect  that  which 
conoerneth  us,  but  will  never  forsake  the  work 
of  His  own  hands.  Let  us  then  expect  the 
Lord  to  give  avhen  we  want,  as  we  want,  and 
ALL  we  want ;  let  us  believe  that  our  strength 
will  be  equal  to  our  burden,  to  our  day.  The 
promise  is  plain,  it  is  positive,  it  is  sure,  and  our 
God  is  faithful. 


God  is  love,  and  will  not  leave  you, 
When  you  most  his  kindness  need ; 

God  is  true,  nor  can  deceive  you, 
Though  your  faith  be  weak  indeed. 

no 


JUNE    15. 

Let  not  your  heart  be  troubled.    John  xiv.  1, 

Jesus  does  not  approve  of  your  being  in  an 
agitated,  perplexed,  uncomfortable  state.  He 
wishes  to  see  you  steady,  holy,  and  happy.  He 
forbids  your  fear ;  He  commands  your  faith. 
As  He  is  with  you,  as  He  is  engaged  for  you, 
you  should  leave  your  concerns  very  much  with 
Him.  But  how  can  we  attend  to  this  exhorta- 
tion ?  G-et  the  mind  assured  of  a  covenant 
interest  in  G-od,  as  your  G-od.  Live  under  the 
impression,  G-od  is  with  me  ;  He  minutely  ob- 
serves everything  that  takes  place  within  and 
around  me ;  He  is  watching  for  an  opportunity 
to  do  me  good ;  He  will  not  allow  anything  to 
hurt  me  ;  He  will  glorify  Himself  in  me,  and 
me  in  Himself;  He  bids  me  trust  Him  ;  I  will 
trust  and  not  be  afraid.  "What  will  follow  ?  He 
will  keep  them  in  perfect  peace,  whose  minds  are 
stayed  on  Him;  because  they  trust  in  Him. 
Trust  then  in  the  Lord  forever ;  for  in  the  Lord 
Jehovah  is  everlasting  strength.  Let  nothing 
trouble  you,  for  your  souls  are  in  the  hands  of 
Jesus ;  your  life  is  hid  with  Christ  in  God ;  your 
times  are  at  God's  disposal ;  and  all  things  are 
working  together  for  your  good. 

0  my  soul  !  what  means  this  sadness  ? 
Wherefore  art  thou  thus  cast  down  ? 
Let  thy  grief  be  turned  to  gladness, 
Bid  thy  restless  fear  begone  ; 

Look  to  Jesus, 
And  rejoice  in  his  dear  name. 

171 


JUNE    IC. 
I  go  to  prepare  a  place  for  you.    John  xiv.  2. 

See,  beloved,  what  Jesus  is  doing.  He  is  en- 
gaged for  us ;  He  did  all  He  could  for  us  on 
earth,  and  then  ascended  to  heaven  to  carry  on 
His  work.  The  place  He  prepares  will  be 
worthy  of  Himself;  "  His  rest  will  be  glorious." 
It  will  just  suit  us ;  there  the  wicked  cease 
from  troubling,  sin  shall  no  more  annoy,  troubles 
shall  no  more  beset,  but  the  weary  shall  be  at 
rest.  He  is  preparing  us  for  it,  as  well  as  it  for 
us ;  therefore  we  are  so  tried  and  afflicted.  Our 
light  afflictions  which  are  but  for  a  moment,  are 
working  out  for  us  a  far  more  exceeding  and 
eternal  weight  of  glory.  Let  us  daily  think  of 
Jesus  as  employed  for  us  ;  let  us  consider  death 
as  going  to  take  possession  of  the  place  He  has 
prepared  for  us  ;  aiid  under  all  that  tries  us  or 
casts  us  down,  let  us  remember,  Jesus  will 
come  again  and  receive  us  unto  Himself ;  that 
where  He  is  we  may  be  also.  Our  present  cot- 
tage may  be  incommodious  and  uncomfortable : 
but  our  mansion  will  be  spacious,  magnificent, 
and  worthy  of  a  G-od.  He  that  overcometh 
shall  inherit  all  things,  and  Jehovah  will  be  His 
God. 

And  art  Thou,  gracious  Saviour,  gone, 
A  mansion  to  prepare  for  me  ? 
Shall  I  behold  Thee  on  Tliy  throne, 
And  there  forever  sit  with  Thee  ? 
Then  let  the  world  approve  or  blame, 
Til  triimiph  in  Thy  gracious  name. 

172 


JUNE    17. 

Salvation  is  of  the  Lord.    Jonah  ii.  0. 

The  love  of  the  Father,  the  work  of  the  Son, 
and  the  operations  of  the  Holy  G-host,  save  the 
soul.  The  Father  devised  the  scheme,  the  Son 
gave  the  ransom,  and  the  Holy  Spirit  puts  us  in 
possession  of  the  blessing.  It  is  of  God.  It  is 
by  grace.  It  i  <  through  faith.  Deliverance 
from  dangers,  trials,  and  wants,  is  of  the  Lord. 
He  delivered  Jonah  when  he  cried,  though  he 
was  a  poor,  proud,  obstinate,  peevish,  fretful  sin- 
ner :  and  He  will  deliver  us.  He  says,  "  Look 
unto  me  and  be  delivered,  for  I  am  God.  Look, 
for  I  bid  you.  Look,  for  I  will  attend  to  you. 
Look,  for  I  will  deliver  you."  He  will  deliver 
in  six  troubles,  and  in  seven  He  will  not  forsake 
us.  He  will  deliver  our  souls  from  death,  our 
eyes  from  tears,  and  our  feet  from  falling.  He 
will  deliver  the  needy  when  he  crieth,  the  poor 
also,  and  him  that  hath  no  helper.  Are  you  look- 
ing to  others  ?  Are  you  drooping,  fearing,  or  de- 
sponding? Your  God  takes  it  unkindly;  He 
asks,  "  Is  my  hand  shortened  at  all,  that  it  can- 
not redeem  ?  Or  have  I  no  power  to  deliver  ? 
Is  anything  too  hard  for  me  ?"  Ho  says,  "  I 
WILL  WORK."     He  asks,   "  "Who  shall  let  it  ?" 

Of  all  the  crowns  Jehovah  bears, 

Salvation  is  His  dearest  claim ; 

That  gracious  sound  well  pleased  He  hears, 

And  owns  Immanuel  for  His  name : 

He  saves  us  by  His  precious  blood, 

And  proves  Himself  the  Mighty  God. 

173 


JUNE   18. 

I  will  not  leave  you  comfortless.    John  xiv.  18. 

Believers  when  in  darkness,  often  fear  that 
Jesus  has  forsaken  them  :  this  is  natural ;  but 
it  is  unscriptural ;  for  He  has  said,  "  I  will 
never  leave  thee,  I  will  never  forsake  thee." 
His  offices  require  His  presence  with  us.  His 
love  secures  His  presence  to  us.  He  will  not 
leave  us  orphans.  We  are  absolutely  dependant 
upon  Him,  our  comfort  is  His  gift,  and  the  con- 
tinuance of  comfort  depends  on  His  presence  and 
srace.  He  is-^Lhe  great  source  of  comfort  to  His 
people ;  His  presence  and  His  comforts  are 
generally  connected;  He  may  withhold  them 
for  a  time  to  reprove — instruct — or  correct  us  ; 
but  we  may  calculate  upon  His  comforts  re- 
turning, for  His  promise  is  plain ;  it  stands  un- 
repealed in  His  word  ;  and  His  nature  and  love 
are  the  same.  His  precious  word  of  promise 
should  be  believed — pleaded — firmly  trusted. 
We  never  shall  be  orphans,  for  our  Father  ever 
lives ;  our  home  waits  to  receive  us  ;  and  our 
hope  is  imperishable.  Oh,  beloved,  plead  this 
precious  word  of  Jesus ;  expect  Him  to  make  it 
good ;  aim  at  His  glory,  and  your  comforts  are 
sure. 

Most  Holy  Spirit,  give  me  faith, 
To  rest  on  what  my  Saviour  saith : 
May  I  the  sweetest  comforts  prove 
Of  His  divine  eternal  love : 
And  daily  trust  His  faithfulness, 
Who  will  not  leave  me  comfortless. 


174 


JUNE    19. 
All  His  saints  are  in  Thxj  hand.     Deut.  xxxiii.  3. 

Every  believer  is  a  saint,  separated  by  the  pur- 
pose of  GroJ  ;   sanctified  by  the  operations  of  the 
Holy  Spirit ;  set  apart  for  God,  and  devoted  to 
His  service.     Every  saint  is  in  the  hand  of  Je- 
sus; in  the  hand  of  His  mercy — in  the  hand  of 
His  powder — and  in  the  hand  of  His  providence. 
The  hand  of  Jesus  is  large  enough  to  hold  all ; 
strong  enough  to  defend  all.     They  are  in  His 
hand  as  His  property,  purchased  by  His  blood ; 
as  His  charge,  committed  to  Him  by  His  Father ; 
at  His  disposal,  to  do  with  them  as   seemeth 
good  in  His  sight ;  under  His  protection,  to  be 
kept  from  Satan,  death,  and  hell ;  to  be  guided 
through  this  desert  world,  to  our  Father's  house 
above  ;  to   be   moulded  by  His  skill,  and  con- 
formed to  His  own  lovely  image  ;  to  be  covered 
from  the  storm,  and  preserved  from  the  furious 
blast ;  to  be  used  for  His  praise,   and  be  lifted 
up  to  His  eternal  throne.     They  are  His  saints  ; 
He  chose  them  for  His  Bride  ;  He  rescued  them 
from  the  hand  of  the  enemy ;  He  claims  them 
as  His  right ;  He  made  them  what  they  are ; 
and  He  will  glorify  them  forever. 


Blessed  are  the  saints  of  God ; 
They  arc  bought  with  Jesus'  blood, 
They  are  ransom'd  from  the  grave, 
Life  eternal  they  shall  have : 
With  them  number'd  may  I  be, 
Now,  and  through  eternity ! 

ns 


JUNE   2  0. 


It  is  Ood  that  justijieth.     Rom.  viii.  33. 

To  be  justified  is  to  be  acquitted,  and  pro- 
nounced righteous.  Every  believer  in  Jesus, 
however  ungodly  he  may  have  been,  or  however 
vile  and  unworthy  he  may  feel,  is  justified  by 
Jehovah.  The  perfect  work  of  Jesus  is  im- 
puted to  him,  free  grace  is  glorified  in  him,  and 
he  is  passed  from  death  to  life.  To  him  there 
is  no  condemnation,  no  one  can  lay  anything  to 
his  charge,  he  is  accepted  in  the  Beloved,  Christ 
lived  and  died  for  him  ;  and  now  he  liveth,  and 
shall  be  glorified  through  and  with  Jesus.  All 
trespasses  are  freely  forgiven  and  eternally  for- 
gotten. G-od  has  cast  all  our  sins  behind  His 
back,  and  now  He  pronounces  us  just.  Let  us 
approach  Grod  believing  that  He  has  justified 
us ;  and  let  us  look  forward  and  rejoice  that  the 
Judge  of  all  the  earth  will  declare  us  righteous. 
Who  shall  lay  anything  to  our  charge.  It  is 
God  that  justifieth.  Who  is  he  that  condemn- 
eth  ?  It  is  Christ  that  died,  yea,  rather  that  is 
risen  again,  who  is  even  at  the  right  hand  of 
God,  who  also  maketh  intercession  for  us.  My 
soul,  look  to  Jesus,  to  His  perfect  work,  and 
prevalent  intercession ;  there  see  thy  salvation 
anti  find  peace. 

They  are  justified  by  grace  ; 
They  enjoy  the  Saviour's  peace ; 
All  their  sins  are  washed  away  ; 
They  shall  stand  in  God's  great  day: 
With  them  numbered  may  we  be, 
Here,  and  in  eternity. 
176 


JUNE  21. 
How  is  it  that  ye  have  no  faith?     Mark  iv.  40. 

WiiKRK  there  is  little  faith  there  are  many- 
fears.  The  disciples  were  filled  with  alarm,  and 
Jesus  inquires,  "  How  is  it  that  ye  have  no 
faith  ?"  ]\[ay  not  our  heavenly.  Father  often 
address  us  in  the  same  language?  How  is  it 
that  ye  give  no  credit  to  my  word  ?  "  How  is  it 
that  ye  place  no  dependence  on  my  relation — 
character — and  veracity  ?  How  is  it  that  ye 
have  no  confidence  in  my  presence — power — and 
love  ?  How  is  that  ye  do  not  expect  my  inter- 
ference, and  look  for  my  supplies  ?  Have  I  not 
made  promises  which  are  plain — positive — and 
sure  ?  Have  I  not  fulfilled  my  promises  again 
and  again  ?  Have  I  not  summoned  witnesses 
to  attest  the  truth  of  ray  work  ?  Have  I  not 
promised  you  my  Holy  Spirit?  Have  I  not 
pledged  my  holiness  ?  Have  I  not  given  my 
Son  for  you,  and  to  you?  Have  I  not  appeared 
for  you  in  every  past  difficulty  ?  How  is  it 
then  that  ye  have  no  faith  ?"  Beloved,  let  us 
humble  ourselves  before  Grod.  Let  us  plead 
guilty  of  indulging  in  unbelief,  and  plead  for 
laith.  Let  us  look  for  God  in  every  place  and 
in  everything. 


Why  slioukl  my  soul  indulge  complaints, 

And  yield  to  dark  despair  ? 
The  meanest  of  my  Father's  saints 

Are  safe  beneath  His  care  : 
Dear  Lord,  increase  my  faith  in  Thee, 
Till  I  Thy  full  salvation  see. 

177 


JUNE   22. 

God  is  faithful.     1  Cor.  x.  13. 

This  is  the  believer's  sheet  anchor  ;  without 
this  his  comforts  would  droop,  and  hope  would 
give  up  the  ghost.  AVe  are  at  times  shaken  to 
pieces  by  unbelief,  and  filled  with  tormenting 
doubts.  AVe  feel  nothing  of  the  presence,  pow- 
er, or  comforts  of  the  Holy  Ghost ;  faith,  hope, 
and  love  seem  to  be  quite  extinguished.  We 
have  no  power  and  scarcely  any  inclination  to 
pray ;  and  we  only  feel  hardness,  fretfulness, 
and  misery.  AVe  are  tempted  by  Satan,  and 
harassed  with  tormenting  thoughts,  so  that  we 
feel  tired  of  this  miserable  life.  Bat  G-od  is 
faithful;  He  never  fails  us;  but  appears  again 
and  again,  restoring  us  to  peace,  joy,  and  satis- 
faction ;  and  our  most  miserable  times  are  often 
succeeded  by  peculiar  joys.  The  scriptures  are 
opened  up  to  our  understandings,  the  promises 
are  applied  to  our  souls,  and  we  are  filled  with 
the  comforts  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Then  our  souls 
melt  before  God  in  contrition,  and  holy  peni- 
tence ;  we  feel  crumbled  into  dust  before  Him  ; 
and  can  only  admire  and  adore  the  riches  of 
free  and  sovereign  grace.  Beloved,  in  the  dark- 
est night,  remember,  "  God  is  faithful." 


He  will  not  His  great  self  deny  ; 
A  God  all  truth  can  never  lie  : 
True  to  Ilis  word,  God  gave  His  Son 
To  die  for  crimes  which  men  had  done  : 
Blest  pledge  !  He  never  will  revoke 
A  single  promise  He  has  spoke. 
1*78 


JUNE   2  3. 
What  do  these  Hebrews  Jiere  ?    1  Sam.  zxix.  3. 

David's  host  wanted  to  mingle  with  the  Philis- 
tines' army  ;  this  was  decidedly  wrong :  and  it 
is  as  wrong,  when  G-od's  people  unite  with  the 
world  contrary  to  His  word.  We  may  ask, 
"What  do  these  Christians  here?"  What  do 
they  joining  with  the  world  ?  Their  Master  has 
told  them  to  "  come  out  and  be  separate." 
What  do  they  seeking  a  settlement  below?  He 
has  said,  "  Arise  ye,  and  depart,  this  is  not 
your  rest."  What  do  they  out  of  the  path  of 
duty,  or  by  their  presence  sanctioning  sin? 
He  has  said,  "  Be  ye  holy,  for  I  am  holy." 
What  do  they  on  Satan's  ground?  In  the 
enemy's  ranks  ?  Do  they  intend  to  leave  Jesus, 
and  join  the  world?  Are  they  tired  of  His 
company,  set  against  His  word,  and  deter- 
mined to  throw  off  His  yoke  ?  Do  they  intend 
to  share  in  what  they  have  proclaimed  as  the 
sinner's  doom  ;  the  frown  of  Jesus,  the  wrath  of 
God,  and  the  slavery  of  Satan  ?  What  do 
THKY  HERE  ?  Tlicir  conduct  is  unnatural — 
degrading — traitorous.  Beloved,  you  should 
keep  the  company  of  Jesus,  walk  with  spiritual 
persons,  and  keep  yourselves  unspotted  from  the 
world. 

Ye  tempting  sweets  forbear, 

Ye  dearest  idols  fall ; 

My  love  ye  must  not  share, 

Jesus  shall  have  it  all : 
Aid  me,  dear  Saviour ;  set  me  free, 
And  I  will  all  resign  for  Thee. 


JUNE   24. 
Yc  are  a  chosen  generation.     1  Pet.  ii.  9. 

Religion  does  not  originate  in  chance,  but  in 
the  purpose  of  Grod ;  it  flows  not  from  the 
nature  of  man,  but  from  the  unalterable  decree 
of  the  Most  High.  Every  believer  is  a  chosen 
vessel.  The  church  had  its  origin  in  Jehovah's 
eternal  election.  Election  flows  from  love ;  it 
is  the  exercise  of  sovereignty  ;  it  secures  man's 
salvation  and  God's  glory.  It  injures  none,  but 
it  pours  incalculable  blessings  upon  thousands. 
It  was  the  act  of  Grod  before  time.  He  chose 
us  in  Christ  as  our  head;  it  was  of  pure  grace  ; 
it  was  to  holiness.  We  were  chosen  to  be  re- 
deemed from  death ;  purified  from  sin ;  sepa- 
rated from  the  world ;  devoted  to  God ;  and 
raised  to  a  state  of  oneness  with  Jehovah. 
Being  chosen  of  God,  we  choose  God  in  return ; 
He  chose  us  to  be  His  people,  we  choose  Him 
to  be  our  God.  He  chose  us  to  be  the  beloved 
Bride  of  Jesus,  and  we  choose  Jesus  to  be  our 
beloved  Bridegroom.  His  election  is  the  cause, 
our  choice  is  the  effect.  His  choice  prevented 
ours;  or  else  we  had  chosen  death,  in  the  error 
of  our  ways.  Beloved,  if  we  are  the  elect  of  God 
we  are  holy  ;  we  are  in  union  with  Jesus. 


All  the  elected  train 

Were  clioscn  in  their  Head, 

To  all  eternal  good, 

Before  the  ■worlds  were  made  ; 
Chosen  to  know  the  Prince  of  peace. 
And  taste  the  riolu's  of  His  grace. 
180 


JUNE   25. 
What  manner  of  persons  ought  ye  to  be?     2  Pet.  iii.  11. 

TiiK  people  of  God  are  expected  to  be  different 
from  the  world ;  they  profess  to  have  another 
Spirit  in  them ;  and  to  be  the  sons  of  G-od. 
They  believe  the  present  frame  of  things  is  to 
be  dissolved  ;  they  look  for  a  new  heaven  and 
a  new  earth,  wherein  dwelleth  righteousness ; 
they  are  strangers  and  pilgrims  here.  What 
manner  of  persons  then  ought  we  to  be  ?  Surely 
we  ought  to  set  light  by  the  things  of  time,  and 
aim  at  the  things  which  are  eternal.  We  ought 
to  be  watchful — prayerful — diligent — holy — pa- 
tient— thankful — and  expectant.  We  ought 
to  be  contented  with  such  things  as  we  have; 
to  give  all  diligence  to  prove  our  title,  make 
sure  our  election,  and  rejoice  in  our  destination. 
We  ought  to  walk  as  Jesus  walked.  To  live 
as  Paul  lived,  dying  daily.  Let  us  ask  this 
morning.  Do  we  habitually  believe  that  present 
things  will  soon  be  dissolved  ?  If  so,  are  we 
acting  according  to  the  same  ?  Are  we  laying 
up  for  ourselves  treasures  in  heaven  ?  Are  we 
doing  good,  that  we  may  be  rich  in  good  works 
and  an  honor  to  religion  ? 


Then  let  us  wait  the  sound, 

That  shall  our  souls  release ; 

And  labor  to  be  found 

Of  Him  in  spotless  peace, 
In  perfect  holiness  renew'd, 
Adorn'd  with  Christ,  and  meet  for  God. 

181 


JUNE   2  6. 

My  grace  is  sufficient  for  thee.    2  Cor.  xii.  9. 

You  need  look  to  no  other  quarter  for  help,  re- 
lief, or  comfort.  Jesus  assures  you  that  His 
grace  is  sufficient.  You  are  welcome  to  it.  You 
are  exhorted  to  have  it.  To  be  strong  in  the 
grace  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus.  It  is  sufficient 
to  support  you  under  every  privation,  to  help 
you  over  every  difficulty,  to  strengthen  you  for 
every  duty,  to  mortify  every  lust,  and  fill  you 
with  all  joy  and  peace  in  believing.  His  grace 
is  almighty — it  is  free — it  is  durable — it  brings 
salvation.  Look  not  at  difficulties — dangers — or 
thy  own  weakness  ;  but  look  to  the  free,  power- 
ful, promised  grace  of  Jesus.  Go  to  His  throne 
of  grace  this  morning,  on  purpose  to  receive 
grace  for  this  day ;  go  every  day  ;  and  when- 
ever you  feel  weak,  timid,  or  cast  down.  His 
grace  was  found  sufficient  for  Paul,  for  the 
martyrs  and  saints,  in  the  deepest  trials,  and  it 
shall  be  found  sufficient  for  thee.  He  says,  "  I 
am  the  Lord  thy  Grod ;  open  thy  mouth  wide 
and  I  will  fill  it.  Come  boldly  to  the  throne  of 
gi'ace,  that  ye  may  obtain  mercy  and  find  grace 
to  help  you  in  time  of  need.  Every  one  that 
aslceth  receiveth."  0  Jesus,  make  good  Thy 
word  in  me! 

Thy  strength  in  weakness  is  ilisplay'd  ; 
My  soul  this  truth  can  relisli  now : 
A  worm  upon  Tliy  power  is  stay'd  ; 
The  weaker  lie,  the  stronger  Thou : 
My  hope,  my  joy,  is  this  alone — 
Jly  strength  i^  Christ,  t:ie  mightv  oxe. 


JUNE    2  7. 

Remember  Lot's  wife.     Luke  xvii.  32. 

She  received  the  angels,  and  hospitably  enter- 
tained thein  ;  she  believed  their  message,  anl 
prepared  to  act  upon  it ;  she  obeyed  their  com- 
mand, and  left  Sodom  and  her  children  behind 
her.  She  forsook  the  ungodly,  and  went  in  com- 
pany with  the  saints  ;  yet  her  heart  was  left 
in  the  city,  and  she  looked  back.  She  was  de- 
prived of  life  for  too  highly  prizing  its  com- 
forts. She  was  cut  off  by  a  visible  display  of 
G-od's  judgment.  The  situation  in  which  she 
died  was  instructive  ;  it  was  not  in  Sodom,  but 
on  the  plain;  she  escaped  one  judgment,  but 
was  overtaken  by  another.  She  was  left  as  a 
sad  example  of  G-od's  jealousy,  and  displeasure 
against  sin.  Here  is  a  warning  to  the  covetous, 
whose  hearts  are  set  on  things  below :  to  the 
self-willed,  who  trifle  with  God's  commands; 
to  the  undecided,  who  stand  between  Sodom 
and  Zoar.  God  will  be  honored  by  our  obe- 
dience, or  by  our  sufferings.  It  is  dangerous 
to  trifle  with  the  smallest  of  God's  commands. 
We  may  overcome  one  temptation,  and  yet  fall 
by  another.  Let  us  examine — are  our  hearts 
detached  from  the  world  ?  Be  not  high-minded, 
but  fear. 

Waiting  for  our  Lord's  returning, 

Be  it  ours  His  word  to  keep ; 
Let  our  lamps  be  always  burning  ; 

Let  us  watch  while  others  sleep : 
We're  no  longer  of  the  night : 
We  are  children  of  the  light. 

183 


JUNE   2§. 
TIic  Lord  vrill  be  the  hope  of  His  people.     Joel  iii.  16. 

AVe  know  not  what  a  day  may  bring  forth  ;  we 
are  born  to  trouble;  many  unexpected  trials 
may  befall  us ;  but  our  God  will  be  our  hope. 
He  is  the  Refuge,  to  which  we  may  always 
repair,  and  find  safety:  the  Fulness,  from 
which  we  shall  receive  a  plentiful  supply.  His 
oath,  His  promises.  His  covenant  character, 
and  the  blood  of  Jesus,  lay  a  firm  foundation 
for  our  hope  ;  and  His  gospel  warrants  us  to 
hope  in  Him  at  all  times,  for  all  things. 
Therefore  let  what  will  come,  we  can  have 
no  reason  to  be  disconsolate;  we  can  have 
no  cause  to  fear ;  our  God  is  our  hope.  May 
the  God  of  hope  fill  us  with  all  joy  and  peace 
in  believing,  that  we  may  abound  in  hope  by 
the  power  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Let  us  gird  up 
the  loins  of  our  minds,  be  sober,  and  hope  to 
the  end  for  the  grace  that  is  to  be  brought 
unto  us  at  the  appearing  of  the  Lord  Jesus. 
Let  us  look  for  that  blessed  hope,  even  the 
glorious  appearing  of  the  great  God,  even  our 
►Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  who  gave  Himself  for  us, 
that  He  might  redeem  us  from  all  iniquity,  and 
purify  unto  Himself  a  peculiar  people,  zealous 
of  ffood  works. 


In  Him  I  hope,  in  Him  I  trust, 
His  bleeding  cross  is  all  my  boast : 
Through  troops  of  foes  He'll  lead  me  on 
To  victory,  and  the  victor's  crown. 

181 


JUNE   29. 
Mif  son,  give  mc  thine  heart.     Prov.  xxiii.  26. 

Beloved,  the  Most  High  presents  Himself  as 
a  Suitor  this  morning ;  He  asks  for  thy  heart. 
It  is  His  workmanship,  He  wants  it  to  be  His 
habitation ;  He  made  it  by  His  power,  He 
wants  to  rule  it  by  His  grace.  He  will  not  be 
satisfied  with  anything  else  ;  if  He  have  the 
heart,  He  has  all  ;  if  He  has  not  the  heart,  He 
has  nothing.  Let  us  surrender  our  hearts  to 
Him  this  morning,  and  every  morning ;  let  us 
ask  Him  to  sanctify  them  by  His  grace,  to  fill 
them  with  His  Spirit,  to  engrave  on  them  His 
image,  to  keep  them  by  His  power,  and  to  fill 
them  with  the  fruits  of  holiness.  If  the  heart 
is  given  to  G-od,  the  life  will  be  according  to 
His  word  ;  if  He  rule  in  us,  we  shall  walk  as 
Jesus  walked;  and  if  our  walk  is  not  holy,  our 
religion  is  but  a  form.  "  He  that  saith,  I  know 
Him,  and  keepeth  not  His  commandments,  is 
a  liar,  and  the  truth  is  not  in  him."  Oh,  how 
awful,  to  thinlc  and  profess  that  we  are  the 
Lord's,  and  yet  to  have  the  heart  under  the  in- 
fluence of  sin,  Satan,  and  the  world!  Jesus 
says,  "  My  son,  give  me  thine  heart."  Let  our 
reply  be,  "  Lord,  take  my  heartj  reign  and  rule 
in  it  forever." 

O  Jesus  !  wounded  Lamb  of  God, 
Come,  ■wash  me  in  thy  cleansing  blood  ; 
Take  my  poor  heart,  and  let  it  be 
Forever  closed  to  all  but  Thee : 
Unloose  my  stammering  tongue,  to  tell 
Thy  love  immense,  unsearchable. 

185 


JUNE   30. 
/  am  Thine,  save  me.     Ps.  cxix.  94. 

"We  profess  to  be  the  Lord's.  "We  are  not  our 
own.  We  belong  not  to  the  world.  We  are 
no  longer  the  servants  of  sin.  We  are  solely 
and  entirely  the  Lord's ;  having  willingly  given 
up  ourselves  into  His  hands,  to  be  saved  by  His 
grace,  devoted  to  His  service,  and  employed  for 
His  glory.  W«  are  His  children  by  grace  and 
adoption ;  His  servants  by  voluntary  engage- 
ment ;  His  soldiers  by  public  profession ;  and 
His  spouse  by  affection  and  union.  Being  the 
Lord's,  we  may  expect  His  interference  on  our 
behalf;  and  we  should  call  on  Him  and  plead 
with  Him  in  all  straits  and  difficulties.  He  will 
save.  He  will  deliver  us.  Let  us  therefore  lay 
our  case  before  Him ;  and  then  ardently  expect 
Him  to  glorify  His  grace  in  us.  Let  us  walk 
worthy  of  God  as  beloved  children :  and  live 
under  the  impression  that  He  will  make  all 
grace  abound  toward  us,  so  Ihat  we,  having  all 
sufficiency  in  all  things,  may  abound  in  every 
good  work.  His  mercy  is  great  unto  the  heav- 
ens, and  His  faithfulness  unto  the  clouds ;  and 
He  never  said  to  the  seed  of  Jacob,  "  Seek  ye 
ME,"  in  vain,     ^ut  He  saith,  "  Seek  ye  me,  and 

YE   SHALL    LIVE." 

Jl'sus,  my  Saviour,  and  my  God, 
Thou  hast  redeera'd  me  with  Thy  blood ; 
By  ties  both  natural  and  divine, 
1  am,  and  ever  will  be  Thine : 
Save  me  from  sin,  and  Satan's  power, 
Guide  mc  and  guard  me  every  hour. 
186 


JULY    1. 
The  Lord  thy  God  is  a  merciful  God.     Deut.  iv.  31. 

It  is  no  uncommon  thing  to  mistake  the  true 
character  of  our  God,  and  conceive  of  Him  so 
as  to  dishonor  His  name,  and  distress  our  own 
souls.  It  is  plainly  and  plentifully  asserted  in 
the  divine  word,  that  our  Grod  is  merciful,  and 
the  same  is  satisfactorily  proved  in  natm*e,  prov- 
idence, and  redemption.  It  is  to  be  firmly  be- 
lieved and  constantly  remembered,  especially 
when  burdened  with  guilt,  or  at  the  throne  con- 
fessing sin  ;  when  enduring  trials,  or  pleading 
with  God  for  blessings ;  when  performing  du- 
ties, or  suffering  privations ;  when  witnessing 
misery,  or  comforting  mourners.  "  Our  God  is 
A  MERCIFUL  GoD."  But  mcrcy  anjj  holiness  are 
united  in  His  nature — word — and  ways.  He 
is  not  implacable  or  difficult  to  please,  but  He 
should  be  daily  loved  and  constantly  trusted. 
His  mercy  is  the  sun  that  enlightens,  the  ocean 
that  supplies,  ancf  the  army  that  guards  us. 
But  for  His  mercy  we  should  soon  sink  into 
despair,  or  run  into  desperation  ;  but  now  we 
may  trust  and  not  be  afraid,  walk  with  Him  in 
peace,  and  rejoice  in  Him  day  by  day. 


Merciful  God,  Thyself  proclaim 

In  my  polluted  breast ; 
Mercy  i.s  Thy  distinguish'd  name, 

Which  suits  a  sinner  best. 
Thy  mighty  mercy  now  make  known 
In  me,  and  claim  me  for  Thy  son. 

187 


JULY   2. 

He  that  toucheth  you,  toucheth  the  apple  of  His  eye. 
Zech.  ii.  8. 

How  infinitely  tender  is  Jehovah  of  His  peo- 
-ple !  They  had  lately  been  visited  with  sore 
judgments;  reduced  to  great  straits;  appeared 
to  be  neglected  of  G-od ;  were  generally  de- 
spised ;  had  only  just  escaped  from  the  enemy's 
land  ;  and  returned  with  weeping  and  supplica- 
tion, like  brands  plucked  from  the  burning,  to 
their  own  country.  And  now  the  Lord  says,  "  He 
that  toucheth  you,  toucheth  the  apple  of  His  eye." 
How  wonderful  the  ways  of  Grod !  As  the  wise 
physician.  He  will  touch  to  cure  ;  but  He  will  not 
allow  others  to  touch  to  hurt.  Like  the  tender 
mother,  He  can  correct  His  children  Himself; 
but  will  not  allow  others  to  do  so.  How  close 
the  union  I  How  peculiar  the  affection  !  How 
tender  the  sympathy !  How  kind  the  care ! 
How  constant  the  attention!  How  merciful 
the  provision  I  How  safe  and  how  happy  they 
are !  Beloved,  take  encouragement  under  all 
your  persecutions  and  trials ;  be  comforted  in 
all  your  afflictions;  you  are  as  near  and  as  dear 
to  Jehovah  as  the  apple  of  His  eye ;  and  you 
are  hid  under  the  shadow  of  His  winsrs. 


No  condemnation  now  I  dread ; 

Jesus,  and  all  in  Him,  is  mine ; 

Alive  in  Him,  my  living  Head, 

And  clothed  in  righteousness  divine, 

Bold  I  appioach  tlie  eternal  throne, 

And  claim  the  ctowh,  thro'  Olu'ist,  my  own. 

188 


JULY  3. 

Their  heart  is  divided.     Hosea  x.  2. 

This  is  a  very  serious  charge  ;  for  Grod  demands 
the  whole  heart,  and  His  people  profess  to  sur- 
render it.  But  have  we  not  reason  to  fear  that 
many  are  guilty  on  this  point  ?  They  appear 
so  undecided,  that  we  must  think  that  the  heart 
is  divided  between  Grod  and  the  world  ;  between 
sin  and  holiness ;  between  truth  and  error ;  or 
between  Christ  and  self.  What  are  the  symp- 
toms of  a  divided  heart  ?  Habitual  cleaving  to 
earth.  Being  satisfied  with  a  form  of  godliness. 
Backwardness  to  examine  ourselves.  A  dislike 
to  plain,  close,  soul-searching,  rousing  preach- 
ing. Putting  away  eternal  things  to  a  distance. 
Beloved,  how  is  it  with  you  ?  G-od  rejects  half 
the  heart.  He  will  have  all  or  none.'  Do  you 
fear  on  this  point.  There  is  a  remedy.  Thor- 
oughly examine  your  heart.  Condemn  what- 
ever you  detect  amiss  in  it.  Take  it  to  Jesus, 
and  beseech  Him  to  heal  it.  Expose  it  to  the 
keen  edge  of  (lod's  word.  Endeavor  to  keep 
up  a  constant  sense  of  the  presence  of  Grod. 
Converse  much  with  eternal  realities.  As  the 
heart  is,  so  will  the  life  be ;  so  will  the  comfort 
and  peace  be.  0  Lord,  unite  my  heart  to  fear 
Thy  name! 

Let  mo,  according  to  Thy  word, 

A  tender,  contrite  heart  receive, 

Wliich  grieves  at  having  grieved  its  Lord, 

And  never  can  itself  forgive  : 

A  heart  Thy  joys  and  griefs  to  feel, 

A  heart  where  Christ  alone  may  dwell. 

189 


JULY    4. 
lie  shall  testify  of  Me.     John  xv.  26. 

It  is  the  office  and  work  of  the  Holy  Spirit  to 
bear  testimony  of  Jesus  ;  He  hath  done  so  in 
the  word  ;  there  Christ  is  set  forth  in  His  glory 
and  grace.  He  testif  es  of  Jesus  by  the  preach- 
ing of  the  gospel ;  for  we  preach  Christ  crucified, 
and  are  determined  (when  under  Divine  teach- 
ing) to  know  nothing  else  among  men.  He 
testifies  of  Jesus  to  the  heart ;  and  then  we  see 
His  loveliness,  behold  His  glory,  pant  for  an 
interest  in  His  salvation,  sigh  for  union  to  His 
person  ;  or,  trust  in  His  promises,  accept  His 
invitations,  rejoice  in  His  name,  and  melt  in 
love  and  gratitude  before  Him.  We  have  then 
no  doubt  about  His  divinity,  suitability,  or 
love  ;  all  we  want  is  to  enjoy,  possess,  and  glorify 
Him.  Every  idol  fatls  before  Him,  every  grace 
springs  up  and  is  in  exercise  upon  Him  ;  we 
love  Him ;  believe  Him ;  hope  in  Him  ;  mourn 
for  Him ;  are  humbled  before  Him ;  and  are 
zealous  for  Him :  our  language  is,  "  None  but 
Jesus,  none  but  Christ  for  me."  Oh,  for 
the  Spirit,  to  testify  of  Jesus  to  our  hearts  and 
consciences,  this  day  and  every  day,  especially 
our  last  day ;  and  to  bear  witness  with  our 
hearts  that  we  are  sons  of  God. 

Saviour,  I  Thy  word  believe, 

My  unbelief  remove ; 
Thy  testifviiig  Spirit  give, 

The  unction  from  above : 
Show  nie,  0  Lonl,  how  good  Tiiou  art, 
And  fix  Thy  witness  in  my  heart, 
190 


JULY   5. 
I  know  their  sorrows.     Exod.  iiL  1. 

The  Lord  is  acquainted  with  all  the  sorrows  of 
His  people ;  they  do  not  suffer  unnoticed  ;  He 
sympathizes  with  them,  and  will  sanctify  sor- 
row to  them.  Israel  suffered,  but  Jesus  sym- 
pathized. "  In  all  their  affliction  He  was  af- 
flicted ;  and  the  angel  of  His  presence  saved 
them;  in  His  love  and  in  His  pity  He  redeemed 
them  ;  and  He  bare  them,  and  carried  them  all 
the  days  of  old."  Beloved,  He  knows  our  sor- 
rows, and  He  will  be  our  Comforter.  Let  us 
lay  them  before  Him  ;  let  us  plead  with  Him  ; 
He  will  be  very  gracious  unto  us  at  the  voice  of 
our  cry  ;  when  He  heareth  He  will  answer.  He 
is  touched  with  the  feeling  of  our  infirmities. 
He  once  suffered  ;  He  was  "  The  Man  of  sor.- 
Rows ;"  and  He  is  able  to  succor  us  who  now 
suffer.  His  sorrows  are  ended,  and  so  will  ours 
be  soon  ;  weeping  may  endure  for  a  night,  but 
joy  Cometh  in  the  morning.  Light  is  sown  for 
the  righteous,  and  joy  for  the  upright  in  heart. 
We  shall  obtain  joy  and  gladness,  and  sorrow 
and  sighing  shall  flee  away.  AVe  shall  enter 
into  His  joy,  be  filled  with  His  love,  and  so  be 
forever  with  Him.  0  Jesus  I  suffer  me  not  to 
dwell  on  my  sorrows,  but  by  Thy  Spirit  direct 
my  heart  into  Thy  love ! 

Away  with  our  sorrow  and  fear, 
We  soon  shall  recover  our  home  ; 
The  city  of  saiats  shall  appear, 
The  day  of  eternity  come. 

191 


JULY  6. 


God  is  with  us.    Isaiah  viii.  10. 


The  Lord's  people  are  never  alone,  therefore 
they  should  not  feel  lonely.  God  is  with  them 
as  an  Observer;  He  notices  every  thought, 
word,  and  action ;  every  trial,  every  foe,  and 
every  danger.  He  is  with  them  as  a  Father, 
loving  and  holding  communion  with  them.  He 
is  with  them  as  the  Lord  of  Hosts,  having  all 
the  armies  of  earth  and  heaven  under  His  direc- 
tion to  befriend  them.  He  is  with  them  as 
a  Guide,  to  lead  them ;  as  a  Counsellor,  to 
plead  their  cause ;  as  a  Friend,  to  supply  and 
comfort  them ;  as  a  Saviour,  to  deliver  and 
exalt  them;  and  as  a  holy,  sin-hating  God.  He 
is  present  with  them  to  try  them — to  reprove 
them — to  humble  them — to  preserve  them — to 
comfort  them — and  to  save  them  with  an  ever- 
lasting salvation.  Beloved,  let  us  remember 
that  God  is  with  us,  everywhere  and  always ; 
this  will  check  levity ;  prevent  impatience ; 
make  us  honest;  encourage  prayerful ness;  in- 
spire with  fortitude  ;  and  produce  diligence.  If 
God  is  with  us  thus.  He  is  for  us ;  and  if  God 
be  for  us,  who  can  be  against  us?  But  do  we 
so  walk,  as  by  our  conduct  to  say,  "  God  is 
WITH  us?" 

Be  it  my  only  AvisJom  here, 

To  serve  the  Lord  with  filial  fear, 

With  loving  gratitude ; 
Superior  sense  may  I  display, 
By  shunning  every  evil  way, 

And  walking  in  the  good. 
192 


JULY   7. 
T  will  not  remember  thy  siu^s.     Isa.  xliiL  25. 

"We  need  fear  nothing  but  sin ;  and  we  have 
no  reason  to  fear  whether  God  will  pardon  that, 
and  save  us  from  it,  if  we  believe  in  Jesus, 
confess  and  forsake  it.  He  has  promised,  "  I 
will  be  merciful  to  their  unrighteousness,  and 
their  sins  and  their  iniquities  avill  I  remember 
NO  MORE."  He  will  not  impute  sin  unto  us ; 
but  He  will  impute  righteousness,  even  the 
righteousness  of  Jesus  without  works.  He  has 
made  up  His  mind  thus  to  glorify  the  riches  of 
His  grace,  thus  to  display  the  wonders  of  His 
love.  No  one  sin  shall  be  charged  upon  us,  He 
will  blot  them  all  completely  out  of  His  book, 
and  banish  them  eternally  from  His  mind.  He 
will  treat  us  as  though  we  had  not  sinned,  or 
rather  as  having  received  full  satisfaction  for 
all  we  have  done  amiss,  and  being  -infinitely 
delighted  with  our  persons.  If  one  sin  were 
remembered,  and  laid  to  our  charge,  we  were 
undone;  but  believing  in  Jesus,  we  are  justified 
from  ALL  SIN,  we  are  saved  from  wrath,  and  are 
made  "  the  righteousness  of  Gtod  in  Him." 
This  is  godlike,  glorious,  divine  ! 


Crimes  of  such  horror  to  forgive, 
Such  guilty  daring  worms  to  spare  ; 
This  is  Tliy  grand  prerogative, 
And  none  shall  in  the  honor  share. 

Who  is  a  pardoning  God  like  Thee  ? 

Or  who  has  grace  so  rich  and  free  ? 

193 


JULY   8. 
FoUma  after  ^haritt/.     1  Cor.  xiv.  1. 

Charity  is  love:  and  what  can  be  so  worthy 
of  the  Christian's  thought,  care,  and  anxious 
desire,  as  love  ?  Love  to  God,  the  centre  and 
source  of  all  excellence  ;  to  Jesus,  the  Mediator 
of  the  new  covenant,  the  personification  of  every- 
thing that  is  lovely ;  to  believers,  for  His  sake 
and  because  they  are  His  children  and  repre- 
sentatives; and  to  sinners,  because  He  com- 
mands us.  The  law  requires  it,  and  the  gospel, 
when  applied  by  the  power  of  the  Holy  Grhost, 
produces  it.  It  is  not  in  our  hearts  by  nature  ; 
we  are  enmity.  It  is  not  to  be  produced  by 
human  effort.  It  flows  from  grace.  It  is  pro- 
duced by  the  Holy  Grhost.  It  is  connected  with 
evangelical  sentiment.  Its  exercise  is  our  hap- 
piness and  our  holiness.  There  is  no  real  re- 
ligion without  love  ;  and  only  so  much  true  god- 
liness as  there  is  love.  Let  us  follow  after 
CHARITY.  Let  us  cultivate  love  to  the  Lord's 
people^  for  the  Lord's  sake  ;  not  merely  those  who 
see  as  we  see,  attend  the  place  of  worship  we 
attend,  and  are  our  personal  friends  ;  this  is  love 
of  party  ;  but  let  us  love  all  who  love  Jesus, 
though  in  some  things  they  differ  from  us. 


'Tie  love  that  makes  our  cheerful  feet 
In  swift  obedience  raove  ; 

'Tis  love  shall  tune  our  joyful  songs. 
In  the  sweet  realms  above  : 

Jesus,  t»  me  this  love  be  given  ; 

Fill  me  with  love,  for  love  is  heaven. 
194 


JULY    9. 
I  will  do  all  my  pleasure.     Isaiah  xlvi.  18. 

The  purpose  of  GfoJ  cannot  be  frustrated.  His 
holy  mind  can  never  be  disappointed.  His  will 
is  law.  His  counsel  must  stand.  He  is  in  one 
mind,  and  none  can  turn  Him.  He  takes  pleas- 
ure in  them  that  fear  Him,  and  in  them  that 
hope  in  His  mercy.  He  chose  them  to  salva- 
tion in  Jesus,  according  to  the  good  pleasure  of 
His  will.  He  works  in  us  to  will,  and  to  do,  of 
His  good  pleasure.  He  will  fulfil  in  us  all  the 
good  pleasure  of  His  goodness,  and  the  work  of 
faith  with  power.  He  is  pleased  to  save  His 
people  with  an  everlasting  salvation.  He  is 
PLEASED  with  our  obedience  to  His  precepts. 
It  is  our  Father's  good  pleasure  that  gives  us 
the  kingdom.  He  accomplishes  the  purposes 
of  His  will  by  angels — they  are  His  ministers, 
which  do  His  pleasure  ;  by  men,  good  and  bad  ; 
by  devils  ;  by  Jesus  Christ ;  the  pleasure  of  the 
Lord  prospers  in  His  hand.  For  His  pleasure 
all  things  are  and  were  created  ;  and  He  work- 
ef.h  all  things  after  the  counsel  of  His  own  will. 
Let  us  seek  to  be  like-minded  with  our  G-od  ;  let 
us  acquiesce  in  all  that  pleases  Him,  and  let 
us  take  pleasure  in  glorifying  Him. 


God  moves  in  a  mysterious  way, 

His  wonders  to  perform ; 
He  plants  His  footsteps  in  the  sea, 

And  rides  upon  the  storm  : 
His  power  and  wisdo.n  will  fulfil 
The  utmost  counsel  of  His  will. 

195 


JULY   10. 

He  that  waiteth  on  his  master  shall  he  honored. 
Prov.  xxvii.  18. 

And  who  is  our  master  but  Jesus  ?  One  is 
your  master,  even  Christ.  We  have  chosen  to 
serve  Him,  because  He  chose  to  save  us.  He 
has  given  us  the  knowledge  of  salvation  by  the 
remission  of  our  sins,  that  we  may  serve  Him 
without  fear,  in  righteousness  and  holiness  all 
the  days  of  our  life.  Our  happiness  is  found  in 
obeying  our  Master's  word,  and  studying  our 
Master's  will.  Let  us  wait  on  Him  for  the  word 
of  command,  nor  dare  to  proceed  without  it. 
Let  us  wait  on  Him  for  ability,  to  do  and  suf- 
fer all  His  righteous  will.  Let  us  wait  His 
time  for  every  promised  blessing,  and  continue 
looking  in  faith  until  we  receive  it.  Let  us 
expect  to  live  at  His  table,  and  wait  on  Him  for 
a  supply  of  all  our  needs,  both  spiritual  and 
temporal.  Let  us  wait  on  Him  in  private,  and 
in  public  always  form  a  part  of  His  retinue.  He 
will  honor  us,  for  He  has  said,  "  If  any  man 
serve  me,  let  Him  follow  me ;  and  where  I  am, 
there  shall  also  my  servant  be;  if  any  man 
serve  me,  him  will  my  Father  honor."  AVe 
shall  know  the  truth,  and  the  truth  shall  make 
us  free  ;   and  all  such  are  free  indeed. 

That  wisdom,  Lord,  on  me  bestow, 

From  every  evil  to  depart ; 

To  stop  the  mouth  of  every  foe, 

While  upright  both  in  life  and  heart, 
The  proofs  of  godly  fear  I  give. 
And  show  them  how  true  Christians  live. 
19G 


JULY    11. 

The  Lord  will  give  strength  unto  His  people. 
Psalm  xxix.  11. 

However  hot  the  war,  or  sore  the  trial,  we  may- 
be sure  of  this,  that  "  as  our  day,  so  shall  our 
strength  be."  Grod  has  promised,  and  He  will 
give.  He  gives  because  they  are  His  people, 
as  the  father  to  his  children  ;  because  He  has 
covenanted  to  do  so,  and  He  is  faithful ;  lest 
their  foes  should  triumph  over  them,  whereas 
He  has  said,  "  They  shall  overcome  at  the  last." 
He  has  raised  their  expectations,  and  He  will 
not  disappoint  them  ;  He  has  commanded  them 
to  pray,  and  He  will  not  refuse.  He  will  give 
strength  sufficient — enough,  but  perhaps  none 
to  spare — suitable  to  their  circumstances  and 
wants.  Has  the  Lord  pledged  Himself  to  give 
strength  to  His  people ;  yea,  to  be  Himself 
their  strength  ?  Then  let  us  fight  courageous- 
ly ;  look  forward  joyfully ;  bear  every  cross 
patiently ;  pray  fervently ;  praise  daily ;  and 
believe  confidently.  God  hath  spoken — saints 
in  every  age  have  found  Him  a  truth-teUing, 
promise-performing  God — Satan  is  a  liar,  a 
deceiver,  a  false  witness  against  God — let  us 
therefore  resist  him,  and  he  will  flee  from  us. 


Give  me  Tliy  strength,  0  God  of  power ; 

Then  let  -winds  blow,  or  thunders  roar, 

Thy  faithful  witness  will  I  be  : 

'Tis  fix'd  ;  I  can  do  all  through  Thee : 
Fulfil  Thy  sovereign  counsel,  Lord, 
Thy  will  be  done,  Tliy  name  adored  ! 

197 


JULY    12. 
Happy  is  tlie  man  thatfeareth  alway.     Prov.  xxviii.  14. 

Godly  fear  flows  from  grace,  and  is  always 
connected  with  spiritual  knowledge.  It  is  the 
fear  of  a  tender  child,  who  would  not  on  any 
account  grieve  a  kind  and  loving  parent.  It  is 
a  covenant  blessing.  Our  Grod  bestows  it  on 
all  whom  he  loves ;  and  they  consequently  fear 
to  offend  Him,  their  Father ;  dishonor  their 
gracious  Saviour  ;  or  grieve  the  Holy  Comforter. 
They  fear  lest  they  should  be  led  astray  from 
Grod,  by  their  own  hearts  ;  by  Satan  ;  by  pro- 
fessors ;  by  the  world ;  or  any  of  the  dispensa- 
tions of  providence.  They  fear  to  trust  their 
own  judgments;  they  reverence  G-od's  word; 
and  dread  a  lukewarm  state.  Happy  is  the  man 
who  THUS  feareth  alway ;  he  happily  preserves 
a  tender  conscience;  a  humble  mind;  and  a 
consistent  walk.  He  proves  his  interest  in  all 
new-covenant  blessings ;  has  much  to  do  with 
the  blood  of  atonement ;  and  enjoys  a  solid 
peace.  He  is  in  a  happy  state,  standing  high 
in  the  favor  of  God,  walking  in  the  comforts 
of  the  Holy  Ghost,  and  keeping  himself  unspot- 
ted from  the  world.  Oh,  for  godly  fear  to  rule 
my  heart,  and  preserve  my  goings  ! 


Fear  him,  j-e  saints !  and  ye  will  then 
Have  nothing  else  to  fear  ; 

Make  ye  his  service  your  delight, — 
He'll  make  your  wants  his  care. 

193 


JULY    13. 

Behold,  I  have  given  Him  for  a  Leader  to  the  people. 
Isaiah  Iv.  4. 

This  was  in  consideration  of  our  ignorance. 
We  know  not  the  way  to  our  heavenly  Father's 
house,  but  Jesus  is  sent  to  lead  the  blind  by  a 
way  which  they  knew  not.  On  account  of  the 
difficulties  of  the  way,  they  are  many  and 
great,  but  Jesus  comes  as  our  Leader,  saying, 
"  I  have  made,  and  I  will  bear ;  even  I  will 
carry,  and  will  deliver  you."  It  manifests  our 
heavenly  Father's  concern  for  our  safety,  com- 
fort, and  confidence.  He  sent  His  only  Son,  be- 
cause He  could  trust  us  in  His  hands  ;  He  being 
infinitely  wise,  gracious,  forbearing,  and  power- 
ful. He  came  to  lead  us  from  the  world  to  the 
church,  from  the  law  to  the  gospel,  from  sin  to 
holiness,  from  wrath  to  love.  He  leads  all  His 
people  to  the  throne  of  mercy,  the  house  of 
prayer,  the  pastures  of  Jehovah's  love,  and  the 
mansions  of  endless  glory.  He  leads  us  against 
Satan,  and  we  overcome ;  against  lust,  and  we 
conquer.  He  leads  us  in  the  way  He  went  Him- 
self; in  the  footsteps  of  His  flock :  as  we  are 
able  to  bear ;  so  as  to  cross  and  crucify  the  old 
man,  and  revive  and  strengthen  the  new. 


Lead  me  od,  Almighty  victor, 
Scatter  every  hostile  band ; 
Be  my  guide  aud  my  protector, 
Till  on  Canaan's  shores  I  stand : 

Shouts  of  victory 
Then  shall  fill  the  promised  land. 

109 


JULY    14. 
My  "people  doth  not  consider.     Isa.  i.  3. 

This  is  a  complaint  preferred  against  us  by  our 
infinitely  gracious  Grod  ;  let  us  attend  to  it  a 
little  this  morning.  What  should  we  consider  ? 
Surely,  how  great  things  the  Lord  hath  done 
for  us ;  He  hath  delivered  our  souls  from  death, 
our  eyes  from  tears,  and  our  feet  from  falling, 
that  we  may  walk  before  G-od  in  the  land  of  the 
living.  How  G-od  provides  for  all  His  creatures, 
even  the  meanest,  and  therefore  will  certainly 
provide  for  us ;  being  engaged  to  do  so  as  our 
Creator,  Preserver,  covenant  God,  and  gracious 
Father.  That  He  is  the  supreme  and  universal 
Governor ;  arranging,  managing,  and  directing 
every  event;  so  that  accident  can  never  happen, 
chance  can  have  no  place,  but  all  is  directed  by 
infinite  wisdom  and  omnipresent  love.  "Why  do 
we  not  consider  ?  Because  our  hearts  are  fickle, 
false,  and  worldly  ;  our  minds  are  influenced  by 
unscriptural  notions ;  and  we  endeavor  to  walk 
by  sight  instead  of  faith.  What  are  the  con- 
sequences of  our  not  considering  ?  Our  God  is 
dishonored  and  displeased ;  our  souls  are  alarmed 
and  misled ;  and  Satan  gains  an  advantage 
over  us. 

Jesus,  mighty  to  renew, 
Work  in  me  to  will  and  do ; 
Stem  my  nature's  rapid  tide. 
Slay  my  vile  self-righteous  pride  ! 
All  thy  power  in  me  be  shown, 
Take  away  the  heart  of  stone  1 

200 


JULY    15. 

]]liat  time  lam  afraid,  I  will  trust  in  Thee.     Ps.  Ivi.  3. 

It  is  no  unusual  thing  for    the    Lord's  people 
to  be    cast    down,    and  filled   with   tormenting 
fears.     They    fear    their    faith    is    presumption, 
their  hope  delusion,  and  that  they  shall  one  day 
disgrace   that   holy   name    by   which   they  are 
called.     They  fear  to  rely  on  a  naked  promise, 
and    ^yant    comfortable    feelings    to    underprop 
their  faith.    But  they  should  take  up  the  Psalm- 
ist's resolution,  "  What  time  I  am  afraid,  I  will 
trust  in   Thee."     Jehovah  in  Jesus  is  the  only 
proper  object  of  trust,  and  He  should  be  trusted 
at  all  times.     Beloved,  it  is  well  when  we  can 
say,  "  I  will  depend  upon  the  faithful  promise 
of  my  gracious    Grod;  I   will   rely  on  the  free 
grace  of  my  adorable  Saviour ;  I  will  hope  in 
covenant  mercy  for  evermore ;  I  will  fly  to  my 
Father's  bosom  ;  and  venture  all  in  my  Saviour's 
hands."     Let  us  trust  in  God,  in  opposition  to 
frames  and  feelings.     Let  us  trust  in  covenant 
love,  though  providence  appears  to  frown.     Our 
G-od  has  said,  "  Trust  ye  in  the  Lord  forever." 
Here  is  our   warrant,  let  us  seek  grace  to  say 
with  Job,  "  Though  He  slay  me,  yet  will  I  trust 
in  Him." 

Oh,  let  me  then  at  length  be  taught 
What  I  am  still  so  slow  to  learn, 
That  God  is  love,  and  changes  not, 
Nor  knows  the  shadow  of  a  turn  : 
To  cast  on  Him  my  anxious  cares. 
And  triumph  o'er  my  doubts  and  fears. 


201 


9* 


JULY   16. 
£c  clothed  with  humUity.     1  Pet.  v.  5. 

It  is  of  great  importance,  to  have  and  to  clier- 
ish  right  views  of  our  own  littleness  and  insig- 
nificance ;  of  our  own  vileness  and  unworthi- 
ness ;  and  of  our  absolute  and  constant  depend- 
ence on  the  mercy  of  our  Grod.  To  possess  a 
meek  and  quiet  spirit,  which  is  in  the  sight  of 
God  of  great  price  ;  that  so  we  may  be  humble 
under  cross  providences,  considering'  our  sin  and 
ill-deservings,  how  we  have  requited  the  Lord  ; 
seeing  the  hand  of  God  working  all  in  all ;  ac- 
knowledging Divine  providence,  let  who  or 
what  will  be  the  instruments  ;  to  be  contented 
with  our  lot,  with  such  things  as  we  have, 
uniting  godliness  with  contentment ;  to  be  habit- 
ually looking  at  the  Lord  Jesus,  what  He  was 
in  His  ancient  glory — what  He  became  for  us — 
what  He  now  is — and  what  we  shall  soon  bo 
with  Him.  Humility  is  the  best  garment  for 
a  justified  sinner  to  wear,  for  God  has  said  He 
will  look  to  and  dwell  with  the  humble.  He 
giveth  grace  unto  the  humble.  He  that  hum- 
bleth  himself  shall  be  exalted.  He  will  hear 
the  cry,  grant  the  desire,  and  save  the  humble 
person. 

Jesus,  from  my  proud  heart  remove 
The  bane  of  self-admiring  love  ! 
Oh,  make  mc  feel  and  own  willi  shame, 
I  less  and  worse  than  nothing  am  ! 
Tlie  least  of  saints  with  pity  see, 
Tlie  chief  of  sinners  save,  in  me  ! 

202 


JULY    IT. 
llie  faiihful  Witness.     Rev.  i.  5. 

This  is  one  of  the  titles  of  our  adorable 
Saviour.  His  Father  gave  Him  to  be  a  witness, 
to  testify  unto  us  of  His  love,  and  His  testi- 
mony is :  "  God  so  loved  the  world,  that  He 
gave  His  only-begotten  Son,  that  whosoever 
believe th  in  Him  should  not  perish,  but  have 
everlasting  life."  To  testify  of  His  will  in 
reference  to  sinners,  and  this  is  His  witness : 
"This  is  the  will  of  Him  that  sent  me,  that 
every  one  that  seeth  the  Son,  (perceiveth  His 
divinity.  His  authority,  and  office,)  and  be- 
lieveth  on  Him,  may  have  everlasting  life,  and 
I  will  raise  him  up  at  the  last  day."  To  testify 
of  His  delight  in  making  His  people  happy  ; 
and  this  is  the  record  :  "  Fear  not,  little  flock, 
for  it  is  your  Father's  good  pleasure  to  give  you 
the  kingdom."  He  bare  witness  that  our  God 
and  Father  will  do  for  us,  and  give  unto  us,  all 
that  our  circumstances  require  ;  and  we  know 
that  His  witness  is  true.  Let  us  therefore 
believe  it,  simply  on  the  ground  of  His  divinity, 
knowledge,  integrity,  veracity,  and  the  interest 
He  takes  in  our  happiness  and  His  Father's 
glory.  Jesus  is  the  faithful  Witness,  and  our 
glorious  Friend. 

Great  Witness  from  above, 

My  tongue  would  bless  Thy  name  : 

By  Thee  the  joyful  news 

Of  my  salvation  came  ; 
The  joyful  news  of  sin  forgiven, 
Of  hell  subdued,  and  peace  with  heaven. 

203 


JULY    18. 

Blessed  are  the  pure  in  lieart :  for  they  shall  see  God. 
Matt.  V.  18. 

It  is  faith  that  purifies  the  heart ;  it  brings 
home  the  atonement,  and  we  enjoy  pardon, 
peace,  and  reconciliation  ;  it  purges  the  con- 
science from  dead  works,  and  delivers  us  from 
all  condemnation.  It  receives  the  truth  of 
God,  and  Jesus  through  the  truth  ;  and  we 
receive  power  to  become  the  sons  of  God.  We 
realize  our  relationship  to  God,  read  the  gra- 
cious promises  God  has  made,  and  anticipate 
the  glorious  kingdom  He  has  prepared ;  hope 
rules  in  the  heart,  and  every  one  that  has  this 
hope  in  Him  purifies  himself,  even  as  Christ 
is  pure.  His  conscience  is  made  tender,  his 
intentions  are  honest,  and  his  heart  is  sound  in 
God's  statutes.  He  groans  under  a  body  of  sin 
and  death,  proclaims  eternal  war  with  the  flesh, 
and  loathes  himself  on  account  of  filthiness  in 
the  spirit.  He  would  give  a  world  to  be  free 
from  sin,  for  holiness  is  the  element  of  his  soul. 
He  is  blessed.  He  shall  see  God,  and  enjoy 
Him  as  his  Father,  Portion,  and  everlasting  all. 
He  shall  be  with  his  God  ;  and  be  like  Him,  in 
purity,  happiness,  and  glory. 


Jesus,  the  crowning  grace  impart ; 
Bless  me  with  purity  of  heart, 

That  now  beholding  Thee, 
I  soon  may  view  Thy  open  face, 
On  all  thy  glorious  beauties  gaze, 

And  God  forever  see  ! 
204 


JULY    19. 
Wliom  having  not  seen  ye  love.     1  Pet.  i.  8. 

We  have  never  seen  the  glorified  body  of  Jesus, 
but  we  have  believed  what  His  word  declares  of 
Him,  and  believing  we  love  Him.  As  the  only- 
begotten  Son  of  God,  who  was  exalted,  dignified, 
and  glorified  from  everlasting ;  as  the  voluntary 
Saviour  of  poor  lost  sinners,  who  became  incar- 
nate, suffered,  bled  and  died  for  them.  We  love 
His  adorable  person — His  countenance  is  maj- 
esty— His  heart  is  love — His  hand  is  omnipo- 
tence— His  eye  is  bountifulness — His  bowels  are 
compassion — and  His  presence  and  smile  are 
heaven.  We  love  His  precious  salvation — in  its 
freeness — completeness — and  glory.  We  love 
His  delightful  promises,  which  anticipate  our 
wants — meet  all  our  wishes — and  fill  our  souls 
with  peace.  We  love  His  throne,  where  He 
meets  us — attends  to  our  requests — and  blesses 
us  indeed.  We  love  His  holy  precepts,  which 
exhibit  His  authority — display  His  love — and 
call  us  to  holiness.  We  love  His  heaven-born 
family,  who  wear  His  likeness — are  the  excellent 
of  the  earth — and  resemble  the  children  of  a 
kinff.  Oh  to  love  Him  more !  To  love  Him 
with  all  our  hearts,  minds,  souls,  and  strength  ! 
To  manifest  our  love  to  Him  by  holy  actions, 
and  a  useful  life  ! 

A  bleeding  Saviour,  seen  by  faith ; 

A  sense  of  pardoning  love ; 
A  hope  that  triumphs  over  death, 

Give  joys  Uke  those  above. 

205 


JULY   20. 

Pray  that  ye  enter  not  into  temptation, 
Luke  xxii.  40. 

TemptXtions  are  trials ;  but  by  temptations 
very  generally  we  understand  solicitations  to 
evil.  Satan  is  the  arch-tempter ;  he  uses  every 
possible  variety  of  instruments,  to  draw  us 
into  sin  and  folly  ;  consequently  we  arc  always 
in  danger  from  him.  But  we  are  liable  to  be 
led  astray  by  his  temptations  often,  because 
they  are  sudden — powerful — importunate — de- 
ceptive— so  timed  as  to  fall  in  with  our  peculiar 
circumstances.  Also  because  our  hearts  are 
weak  —  changeable  —  prone  to  evil  —  open  to 
seduction.  How  many  eminent  saints  have 
fallen !  Let  us  beware  !  Falling  into  tempta- 
tion dishonors  God,  disgraces  religion,  and  dis- 
tresses the  soul.  God  is  able  to  preserve  and 
deliver  us.  He  has  promised.  But  prayer  is 
implied  in  every  promise.  Beloved,  daily  remem- 
ber you  have  a  malicious  and  designing  foe ;  he 
is  present  with  you ;  he  will  use  saints  and  sin- 
ners as  instruments  to  lead  you  astray.  Pray 
without  ceasing.  Pray  in  simplicity — in  sin- 
cerity— with  importunity.  God  is  faithful,  and 
will  make  a  way  for  your  escape. 


Jesus,  Retleemer,  Saviour,  Lord, 
The  weary  sinner's  Friend, 

Corae  to  my  help,  pronounce  the  word, 
And  bid  my  troubles  end : 

Wisdom  and  strength  to  me  impart. 

To  quench  each  flaming  fiery  dart. 
2(i(; 


JULY    2  1. 
Abide  in  Mc.     Jolui  xv.  4. 

Bv  nature  we  are  without  Christ  and   are   fiir 
from  Him ;  by  grace  we  accept  His  invitation, 
and  come   to    Him    feeling   our    need   of   Him. 
We  are  brought  to  sec  that  nothing  but  union 
to  Jesus  can  make  us  safe  and  happy  ;  and  to 
give    up   ourselves   to   Him,  praying  to  be  one 
with    Him;    He  receives  us,  sheds  abroad    His 
love  in  our  hearts,  and  we  become  members  of 
His  body,  of  His  flesh,  and  of  His  bones.     He 
then  bids  us  to  abide  in  Him,  which  we  do  by 
living   in  absolute   dependence   upon  Him ;    by 
cleaving  to  Him  in  love  as  our  beloved   Saviour, 
God,  and  Friend;  by  openly  professing  our  at- 
tachment  to  Him,  and  expectations  from  Hmi ; 
by  walking  in  daily  fellowship  and  communion 
with  Him  ;  and  by  identifying  our   cause  with 
His.     Beloved,  we  must  abide  in   Jesus  if  we 
would  get  sin  mortified  ;  our  graces  nourished ; 
our    lusts    subdued ;    obtain    victory   over    the 
world ;    prove  a  match  for    Satan ;    and   obtain 
all  necessary  supplies.      Abiding  in  Jesus  will 
give   us   a   single   eye ;    a   burning   zeal ;    holy 
discretion ;  and  enable  us  to  seize  all  opportuni- 
ties to  glorify  His  adorable  name. 


Hail,  gracious  Saviour,  all-divine ! 

Mysterious,  ever-living  vine ! 

To  Thee  united  may  I  live, 

And  nourished  by  Thine  influence  thrive ; 

Still  may  my  soul  abide  in  Thee, 

From  envv.  pride,  and  malice  free. 

207 


JULY   2  2. 

A  just  God  and  a  Saviour.     Isaiah  xlv.  21. 

God  cannot  part  with  His  justice  even  to  gratify 
His  love  ;  and  His  justice  shines  equally  witli 
His  grace  in  the  present  and  eternal  salvation 
of  our  souls.  He  gave  His  Son  for  a  Substitute, 
He  appointed  Him  to  be  our  Surety,  and  pun- 
ished Him  in  our  stead.  He  justly  condemned 
Him  to  die,  though  guiltless,  because  oar  sins 
were  imputed  to  Him  ;  and  He  justly  raised 
Him  from  the  dead,  because  our  sins  had  been 
expiated  by  Him.  His  work  was  perfect,  there- 
fore His  deliverance  was  just.  He  is  a  just 
God,  and  therefore  never  will  exact  the  same 
debt  of  the  sinner,  which  was  paid  by  His 
surety  ;  nor  condemn  Him  for  that  for  which 
His  Substitute  atoned.  His  justice  will  shine 
in  our  eternal  acquittal,  and  be  eternally  hon- 
ored in  our  endless  salvation.  He  drew  the 
plan  of  salvation,  sent  His  Son  to  execute  it, 
gives  His  Spirit  to  put  us  in  possession  of  the 
blessing,  and  at  last  receives  us  to  Himself,  of 
purest  grace.  "  He  saved  us,  and  called  us 
with  an  holy  calling,  not  according  to  our  works, 
but  according  to  His  own  purpose  and  grace, 
which  was  given  us  in  Christ  Jesus  before  the 
world  began." 

Mystery  of  redemption  this — 
All  my  sins  on  Christ  were  laid ; 
Mine  offence  was  reckoned  His ; 
He  the  great  atonement  made  ! 
Here  His  justice  He  displays, 
While  He  saves  my  soul  by  grace. 
208 


JULY  23. 

Hold  Thou  me  up,  and  I  shall  be  safe. 
Psalm  cxix,  117. 

This  should  be  the  Christian's  daily  prayer  ;  his 
way  is  rough,  the  dangers  are  many,  his  foes 
are  powerful,  and  he  is  liable  to  fall.  If  wc  from 
the  heart  present  this  prayer,  it  proves  that  we 
have  a  sense  of  our  own  weakness ;  a  knowledge 
of  the  Lord  as  our  strength  ;  genuine  humility 
working  within ;  and  a  desire  to  honor  God 
ruling  in  the  conscience.  We  are  in  the  world, 
and  unless  the  Lord  hold  us  up,  we  shall  bring 
guilt  on  the  conscience,  disgrace  on  the  gospel, 
and  dishonor  to  God.  We  are  in  the  church, 
and  unless  the  Lord  hold  us  up,  we  shall  prove 
roots  of  bitterness,  stumbling-blocks,  and  grieve 
the  godly.  We  shall  be,  if  we  are  not,  in 
affliction,  and  unless  the  Lord  hold  us  up,  we 
shall  faint,  be  angry  with  God,  as  was  Jonah, 
or  be  hardened  through  the  deceitfulness  of  sin. 
O  believer,  lean  not  on  earth  ;  trust  not  in  a 
friend  ;  place  no  dependence  on  gifts  ;  but  let 
your  daily,  yea,  hourly  prayer  be,  "  Hold  Thou 

ME     UP,    AND     I     SHALL     BE     SAFE."        The     Car     of 

thy  God  is  open,  the  heart  of  thy  God  is 
tender,  the  arm  of  thy  God  is  strong. 

Son  of  God  !  Thy  blessing  grant ; 
Still  supply  my  every  want : 
Unsustained  by  Thee,  I  fall ; 
Send  the  strength  for  which  I  call ; 
Weaker  than  a  bruised  reed, 
Help  I  every  moment  need. 

209 


JULY   2  4. 
The  way  of  peace.     Rom.  iii.  1*7. 

Peace  is  an  invaluable  blessing,  whether  we 
consider  it  as  reconciliation  to  God,  or  tran- 
quillity and  comfort  of  mind.  It  is  not  to  be 
obtained  by  the  works  of  the  law,  but  if  we 
would  obtain  peace,  it  must  be  by  receiving  the 
Saviour's  word  into  our  hearts ;  by  believing  on 
Him  as  able  and  willing  to  save  ;  by  trusting 
the  testimony  God  hath  given  of  His  Son  ;  by 
renouncing  self,  as  loathsome  in  the  sight  of 
God ;  by  relying  simply  and  always  on  Jesus 
for  all  we  need  ;  and  by  daily  making  a  hearty 
surrender  of  all  to  infinite  love.  If  we  would 
maintain  peace,  we  must  confide  in  the  prom- 
ises ;  walk  by  the  precepts ;  be  loyal  to  the 
King  of  Zion ;  commune  daily  with  our  heaven- 
ly Father ;  attend  upon  Him  in  the  ordinances 
of  His  own  appointment ;  rely  on  His  special 
and  particular  providence ;  frequent  the  open 
fountain  for  purification ;  cleave  to  the  saints  in 
love,  as  the  body  of  Christ ;  and  di-sentangle 
our  affections  from  the  world,  and  set  them  on 
things  above.  This  is  the  way,  walk  ye  in  it. 
Let  nothing  tempt  you  to  leave  it.  Endeavor 
by  all  means  to  attract  others  to  it. 

There  is  no  path  to  heavenly  bhss, 
Or  solid  joy,  or  lasting  peace, 

But  Christ,  th'  appointed  road : 
Oh  may  I  tread  the  sacred  way, 
By  faith  rejoice,  and  praise,  and  pray, 

Till  I  sit  down  with  God. 


210 


JULY    3  5. 
Be  still,  and  know  that  lam  God.     Ps.  xlvi.  10. 

The  dispensations  of  divine  providence  are  often 
very  perplexing  ;  our  God  has  His  way  in  the 
sea,  and  His  path  in  the  deep  waters,  and  His 
footsteps  are  not  known.  Reason  is  confounded, 
and  faith  is  staggered  ;  but  He  hushes  our  fears, 
silences  our  cries,  and  bids  us  "  Be  still." 
We  must  lie  before  Him,  as  the  lamb  at  the 
shepherd's  feet ;  as  the  child  in  the  parent's 
arms.  He  will  not  harm  us  Himself,  nor  will 
He  let  others  do  so.  We  must  learn  that  He  is 
God  infinitely  wise,  invariably  good,  always  a 
Sovereign.  He  doeth  according  to  His  will  in 
heaven,  on  earth,  in  the  sea,  and  all  deep  places. 
None  can  stay  His  hand,  or  dispute  His  right  to 
accomplish  His  will.  Let  us  therefore  keep 
silence  before  Him.  He  is  our  God,  and  we  are 
His  people  ;  His  mercy  is  everlasting,  and  His 
truth  endureth  throughout  all  generations.  Let 
us  not  murmur,  fur  He  is  gracious  ;  let  us  not 
complain,  for  He  is  a  Father  unto  us ;  let  us 
not  fear,  for  He  is  faithful ;  but  let  us  wait  upon 
Him,  submitting  in  all  things  to  His  will,  and 
surrendering  ourselves  into  His  hands  with 
"  Here  am  I,  do  with  me  as  seemeth  Thee  good.*' 

When  I  can  trust  my  all  with  God, 

In  trial's  fearful  hour, — 
Bo-K'.  all  resign'd,  beneath  His  rod, 

And  bless  His  sparing  power, 
A  joy  springs  up  amidst  distress, — 
A  fountain  in  the  wilderness. 

211 


JULY    2  6. 

lieceivt  not  the  grace  of  God  in  vain. 
2  Cor.  vi.  1. 

By  the  "grace  of  God"  in  this  passage,  we  are 
to  understand  the  everlasting  gospel ;  which  is 
a  glorious  proclamation  of  favor  manifested  to 
the  vile  and  unworthy.  It  proclaims  that  God 
has  come  down  unto  us  in  the  person  of  Christ ; 
that  He  has  accepted  the  labors,  sufferings,  and 
death  of  Jesus,  as  the  ground  of  our  deliverance 
from  death,  and  as  our  title  to  eternal  life ;  and 
He  now  sends  His  ambassadors  to  assure  us 
that  He  is  our  Friend  ;  that  He  will  not  impute 
our  trespasses  unto  us ;  that  He  views  us  in 
Jesus  as  a  neav  creation,  all  former  things  are 
passed  away  and  forgotten  ;  and  He  will  make 
ail  who  receive  His  word,  and  believe  in  His 
Son,  the  righteousness  of  God  in  Him.  Let  us 
not  then  receive  this  glorious  message  in  vain ; 
we  do  so  if  we  indulge  the  thought  that  God  is 
angry  with  us ;  if  we  doubt  our  acceptance  of 
God  in  Christ ;  if  we  fear  that  He  will  be  wroth 
with  us.  He  informs  us  of  His  grace,  to  en- 
courage us  to  believe,  to  quicken  us  in  His 
ways,  to  embolden  us  at  His  throne,  to  produce 
love  to  His  name,  and  to  furnish  us  with  an 
answer  to  all  objections. 

Oh,  what  amazing  words  of  grace 

Are  in  the  gospel  found  ! 
Suited  to  every  sinner's  case, 

Who  knoAvs  tlie  joyful  sound. 
May  I  this  glorious  grace  receive, 
And  to  my  Saviour's  glory  live. 
212 


JULY    2  7. 
/  will  wait  upon  the  Lord.     Isaiah  viii.  17. 

The    Lord  had  concealed  His  face,   His   favor 
could  not  be  discovered,  but  marks  of  displeasure 
appeared ;  yet  the  church  determines  not  to  de- 
spond or  yield  to  fear,  but  to  wait  upon  the  L(jrd 
who  was   hiding   Himself   from   the    house    of 
Israel,  and  to  look  for  Him.     It  is  a  great  trial 
to  a  real  believer  for  His  God  to  hide  His  face  : 
but  it  is  still  his  privilege  to  wait  daily  at  His 
gates,  and  to  watch  at  the  posts  of  His  doors, 
persuaded   that  He  will  turn  again,  and  display 
His  forgiving  love.     We  must  not  give  up  hope, 
nor  abandon  the  Lord's  ways,  nor  restrain  prayer 
before  Him  ;  but  we  must  wait  in  faith,  believ- 
ing His  word  ;  in  expectation,  trusting  His  faith- 
fulness.    Nothing  should  be  allowed  to  weaken 
our  faith  in  God's  word  ;  or  drive  our  souls  frum 
His  throne.     He  waits  for  the  fittest  time  to  be 
gracious,  and  we   should  wait  His  time  to   be 
comforted,  or  delivered.     Wait  on  the  Lord  and 
KERP  HIS  WAY.     Wait  as  a  servant  for  his  mas- 
ter's return  ;  as  a  child  for  his  father's  blessing ; 
as   a  bride  for  the    tokens   of   her  bridegroom's 
love.     He  says,  "Behold,  I  come  quickly;  bles- 
sed is  he  that  watcheth." 


still  nigh  me,  O  my  Saviour,  stand, 
Anil  guard  in  fierce  temptation's  hour  ; 
Hide  in  the  hollow  of  thy  hand, 
Show  forth  in  me  thy  saving  power ; 
Still  be  thine  arm  my  sure  defence, 
Xor  e.irth  nor  hell  shall  pluck  me  thence. 

213 


J  U  L  Y  2  §. 

lie  will  yet  deliver  us.     2  Cor.  i.  10. 

How  many  times  has  our  God  delivered  us, 
from  how  many  dangers,  in  how  many  ways ; 
and  He  who  hath  delivered,  doth  deliver,  and 
in  Him  we  trust  that  He  will  yet  deliver  us. 
He  delivered  us  from  spiritual  death,  by  the 
operations  of  His  Holy  Spirit ;  and  from  eternal 
death,  by  the  sacrifice  of  His  Son.  We  were 
dead,  but  we  arc  now  alive  unto  God,  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord ;  and  He  who  delivered 
from  the  greatest  evil,  spiritual  death,  will  not 
refuse  to  deliver  us  from  any  lesser  danger. 
Let  us  trust  in  Him,  rely  upon  Him,  and  ex- 
pect Him  to  deliver;  it  is  written,  "  Many  are 
the  aflHictions  of  the  righteous,  but  the  Lord 
delivereth  him  out  of  them  all.  He  knoweth 
how  to  deliver  the  godly  out  of  temptation.-' 
Let  us  triumph  with  Paul,  "  The  Lord  stood 
with  me,  and  strengthened  me ;  and  I  was  de- 
livered out  of  the  mouth  of  the  lion  ;  and  the 
Lord  shall  deliver  mo  from  every  evil  work,  and 
will  preserve  me  unto  His  heavenly  kingdom; 
to  whom  be  glory  forever  and  ever.  Amen." 
If  He  had  not  intended  to  carry  on  the  work, 
He  would  not  have  begun  it ;  for  He  well  knew 
what  opposition  it  would  meet  with  ;  but  He 
that  began  will  perfect  it  in  the  day  of  Jesus 
Christ. 

Yet  I  must  fight,  if  I  woultl  reign  ; 

Increase  my  courage,  Lord! 
I'll  bear  the  tdil,  onJure  the  pain, 
Su2iported  by  Thy  word. 
214 


JULY   2  9. 
/  am  a  stranger  in  the  earth.     Pa.  cxix.  9. 

Beloved,  we  are  strangers  and  pilgrims  in  the 
eartii,  as  all  our  fathers  were  ;  our  days  are  as  a 
shadow,  and  there  is  no  abiding.  We  are  born 
from  above  and  are  bound  for  glory.  We  are 
distant  from  home,  where  our  kindred,  our  treas- 
ure, and  our  hearts  are  found.  Here  we  have 
no  fixed  residence ;  nor  should  we  have  any 
fellowship  with  the  unfruitful  works  of  darkness, 
but  rather  reprove  them.  We  are  called  to 
submit  to  many  inconveniences.  The  Bible  is 
our  light,  our  food,  our  joy,  and  our  directory. 
We  want  a  guide,  a  guard,  a  companion,  a  com- 
forter ;  but  Jesus  has  engaged  to  fill  each  of 
these  offices.  Wc  should  pray  for  the  peace  of 
the  country  where  we  sojourn ;  we  should  not 
be  meddlers  with  its  concerns,  but  keep  ourselves 
detached  ;  we  should  be  thankful  for  every  ad- 
vantage, but  set  and  keep  our  affections  on 
things  above  ;  we  should  neither  be  impatient 
nor  reluctant  in  reference  to  going  home,  but 
submit  to  our  Father's  will ;  we  should  consider 
ill-treatment  as  permitted  to  do  us  good ;  and 
contrast  the  present  with  our  own  beloved  coun- 
try and  home. 


There  is  my  bouse  and  portion  fair, 
My  treasure  and  my  heart  are  there, 

And  my  abiding  home  ; 
For  me  my  elder  brethren  stay, 
And  angels  beckon  me  away, 

And  Josus  bids  me  come. 

215 


J  r  L  Y  3  o. 

He  that  glorieth,  let  him  glory  in  the  Lord. 
1  Cor.  i.  31. 

It  is  unlawful  to  glory  in  ourselves,  our  descent, 
our  possessions,  our  connections,  or  doings  ;  if 
we  glory  it  must  be  in  the  Lord.  We  must 
glory  in  Him  as  gracious  and  merciful,  exercis- 
ing loving-kindness  and  tender  mercies  in  the 
earth  ;  in  what  He  is  to  His  people,  their  God, 
their  portion,  and  their  Friend^  in  what  He  has 
for  us,  has  already  given  to  us,  and  will  without 
doubt  bestow  upon  us.  In  Christ,  as  crucified 
for  our  sins,  raised  for  our  justification,  and 
ascended  to  heaven  in  order  to  plead  our  cause, 
and  take  possession  of  the  kingdom  in  our  names. 
In  our  relation  to  Him,  interest  in  Him,  and 
oneness  with  Him ;  this  is  our  glory,  that  we 
are  one  with  Christ,  and  one  with  the  Father 
through  Him.  That  we  are  heirs  of  God,  and 
joint-heirs  with  Jesus  Christ ;  that  all  things  are 
for  our  sakes,  that  the  abundant  grace  might, 
through  the  thanksgiving  of  many,  redound  to 
the  glory  of  God.  Beloved,  let  us  glory  in  the 
Lord,  in  His  free  grace,  eternal  love,  \velI-ordered 
covenant,  precious  promises,  splendid  mansions, 
and  glorious  name. 


In  Christ  my  full  salvation  stands, 

In  Him  alone  my  glorying  be ; 

Nothing  shall  pluck  me  from  His  hands, 

From  condemnation  I  am  free  : 

Be  holiness  my  costly  dress, 

And  my  best  robe  His  righteousness. 


216 


JULY   31. 

The  things  that  accompany  salvation. 
Heb.  vi.  9. 

Let  us  inquire,  What  are  they  ?  Do  we  possess 
them  ?  Sj5iritual  life — evidenced  by  convictions 
of  sin  ;  hatred  to  sin  ;  crying  to  God  for  deliv- 
erance from  sin  ;  groaning  under  the  weight  of 
the  body  of  sin  and  death.  A  tender  conscience, 
— which  trembles  at  sin,  and  feels  deeply  for 
God's  glory.  A  filial  fear  of  God, — lest  we 
should  dishonor  His  name,  disgrace  His  cause, 
and  grieve  His  love.  An  anxiety  and  deep-root- 
ed concern  for  holiness, — both  in  the  heart  and 
the  life.  Contrition  or  brokenness  of  heart  for 
sin, — ^accompanied  with  holy  mourning  before 
God.  Fervor  in  devotion, — earnestly  breathing 
out  the  desires  of  the  heart  before  God,  or  grieV" 
ing  when  it  is  not  so.  A  jealousy  of  self, — as  to 
our  sincerity  and  uprightness  of  intention  ;  lest 
we  should  be  led  astray  by  the  corruptions  which 
are  within.  A  chaste  conversation  coupled  with 
fear.  Diligence  in  the  means  of  grace.  SeArch- 
ing  the  scriptures,  to  ascertain  our  real  state  and 
condition  ;  what  is  the  Lord's  will  and  our  duty. 
An  increasing  discovery  of  our  own  weakness, 
imperfection,  and  misery. 

Ye  saints !  your  music  bring, 

And  swell  the  rapturous  sound ; 
Strike  every  trembling  string, 

Till  earth  and  heaven  resound  : 
The  triumphs  of  the  cross  we  sine, — 
Awake,  ye  saints  !  each  joyful  string. 

217 
10 


AUGUST    1. 


We  trust  in  the  living  God.     1  Tim.  iv.  10. 

The  living  God  is  opposed  to  a  dying  world,  to 
our  dying  fran:ies,  and  to  our  dying  friends  ; 
these  must  not  be  trusted,  or  we  shall  be 
wretched.  Our  God  may,  ought  to  be  trusted, 
for  He  is  the  only  suitable  object  of  a  Christian's 
trust ;  He  is  able  to  do  exceeding  abundantly 
above  all  we  can  ask  or  think.  He  is  immuta- 
ble. He  never  disappointed  a  sinner's  hope,  if 
founded  on  His  word  ;  or  refused  a  believer's 
petition,  for  deliverance  or  relief  If  we  trust  in 
the  living  God,  it  will  preserve  us  from  perpet- 
ual disappointment ;  from  bitter  reflections  on 
self  and  others ;  from  many  dangers ;  and  from 
the  threatened  curse.  If  we  trust  in  the  living 
God  we  are  blessed  ;  we  shall  be  fruitful ;  we 
shall  be  delivered  from  slavish  fears;  we  shall 
enjoy  perfect  peace  ;  we  shall  be  provided  for ; 
we  shall  find  a  refuge  in  every  storm ;  have  an 
answer  for  all  who  reproach  us  ;  experience  firm- 
ness and  stability  ;  and  enjoy  solid  happiness. 
Let  us  ascertain,  Are  we  trusting  in  the  living 
God  ?  Let  us  seek  grace,  daily  to  live  in  simple, 
child-like  dependence  upon  Him.  Blessed  is  the 
man  that  trusteth  in  the  Lord. 


In  Thee,  O  Lord,  I  put  my  trust, 
Mighty,  and  merciful,  and  just, 

"Who  hides  my  life  above ; 
Thou  canst,  Tliou  wilt  my  helper  be; 
My  confidence  is  all  in  Thee> 

My  faithful  God  of  love. 
218 


AUGUST    2. 


My  son,  despise  thou  not  the  chastening  of  the  Lord. 
Hcb.  xii.  5. 

The  Lord  speaketli  unto  us  as  unto  children ; 
He  speaks  in  reference  tu  our  afflictions :  they 
are  chastisements  ;  they  are  sent  in  love  ;  when 
we  are  chastened  we  are  juJged  of  the  Lord, 
that  we  may  not  be  condemned  with  the  world, 
Let  us  not  faint  under  them,  let  us  not  despise 
them.  We  do  so  when  we  think  there  is  no  oc- 
casion for  them,  and  that  we  could  do  as  well, 
or  better  without  them.  When  we  do  not  seek 
to  ascertain  the  cause  why  they  are  sent;  or  to 
learn  the  lessons  they  are  intended  to  teach. 
When  we  do  not  acknowledge  the  Lord's  right 
to  chasten  ;  His  love  in  doing  it ;  and  His  wis- 
dom in  the  time,  nature,  and  duration  of  the 
trial.  When  we  do  not  seek  grace  to  submit 
cheerfully,  or  at  least  silently  ;  and  to  glorify 
God  in  it,  and  after  it.  When  we  do  not  seek 
to  be  improved  in  our  knowledge,  sanctity,  and 
spiritual  vigor  by  it.  When  with  a  carnal, 
flesh-pleasing  view,  we  seek  to  be  delivered 
from  it.  Beloved,  let  us  beware  of  despising 
divine  chastisement  in  any  of  these  ways  ;  but 
let  us  glorify  God  in  the  day  of  visitation. 


Father,  if  Thou  must  reprove 

For  all  that  I  have  done, 
Not  in  anger,  but  in  love, 

Chastise  Tiiy  wayward  son  ; 
Correct  with  kind  severity, 

And  bring  me  home  to  Thee. 

219 


AUGUST    3. 


The  Lord  ihinketh  upon  me.    Psalm  xl.  17. 

When  we  think  of  the  greatness  and  glory  of 
Jehovah,  man  appears  so  worthless  and  insignifi- 
cant, that  we  are  ready  to  as^k,  "  Will  the  Lord 
regard  us,  bless  us,  and  dwell  with  us  ?"     Yes 
— He  has  promised  to  do  so  in  His  word,  and 
He  has  informed  us  that  His  thoughts  are  per- 
petually taken  up  with  us.     He  thinUeth  upon 
us,  to  supply  our  need,  protect  from  foes,  lead 
us  in    His  ways,  and  make    us    meet    for    His 
kingdom  and  glory.     His  thoughts  are  thoughts 
of  peace  and  not  of  evil,  to  give  us  an  expected 
end.     He  thinketh  upon  us  by  day  and  by  night, 
when  at  home  or  abroad  ;  and  He  thinks  of  us 
with  love  as  His  ehilJren  ;  with  pleasure  as  His 
friends  ;  with  a  purpose  to  bless  us,  as  His  de- 
pendants.    We    think    He    may    perhaps    have 
mercy.  He  may  do  a  little  for  us  ;  but  as  high 
as  the  heavens   are   above   the   earth,  so  are  His 
thoughts   above  our    thoughts  ;    and   His   ways 
above  our  ways.     His  thoughts  are  worthy  of  a 
God.      What    are    the    promises  ?      Only    His 
thoughts  put  into  our   language.     And  what  do 
they  prove  ?     Truly  that  He  thought  of  all  our 
wants,  wishes,  and  desires,  and  made   full   pro- 
vision for  them. 

Father,  I  want  a  thankful  heart, 
I  want  to  taste  how  good  Thou  art ; 
To  plunge  me  in  Thy  mercy's  sea. 
And  comprehend  Thy  love  to  me  ; 
The  length,  and  breadth,  and  depth,  and  height 
Of  love  divinely  infinite. 
220 


AUGUST    4. 

Tlion  shalt  kncno  hereafter.     John  xiii.  7. 

We  are  often  at  a  loss  to  account  for  many 
things  in  our  feelings,  in  our  circumstances,  and 
in  the  Lord's  dealings  with  us;  but  what  we 
know  not  now,  we  shall  know  hereafter.  This  is 
our  Saviour's  promise  ;  let  us  take  the  comfort 
of  it,  and  expect  its  faltilmcnt  to  our  perfect  sat- 
isfaction by-and-bye.  We  shall  know  some 
things  before  the  coming  of  our  Lord,  and  we 
shall  know  all  things  after.  Every  difficulty 
will  then  be  cleared  up,  and  all  the  trying  dis- 
pensations of  divine  providence  accounted  for. 
Let  us  therefore  be  patient,  and  wait  the  Lord's 
time  ;  the  coming  of  our  Lord  draweth  nigh. 
Let  us  silently  submit  to  our  Father's  will,  for 
we  shall  see  that  it  was  wise  and  kind.  Let  us 
acknowledge  the  right  of  God  to  conceal  the 
cause  of  His  working,  until  He  has  fully  accom- 
plished His  designs.  Let  us  praise  Him  for  all 
that  is  past,  and  trust  Him  for  all  that  is  to 
come.  "  Now  we  see  through  a  glass  darkly, 
but  we  shall  soon  see  Him  face  to  face  ;  now 
we  know  but  in  part,  then  shall  we  know  even 
as  also  we  are  known."  May  the  Lord  direct 
our  hearts  into  His  love,  and  into  the  patient 
waiting  for  Christ. 


Jesus,  we  own  Thy  sovereign  hand, 

Thy  faithful  care  we  own  ; 
Wisdom  and  love  are  all  Thy  ways, 

When  most  to  us  unknown  : 
To  Thee  we  cheerfully  resign, 

For  Thou  art  ours,  and  we  are  Thine. 


221 


AUGUST   5. 


He  will  ever  be  mindful  of  His  covenant. 
Psalm  cxi.  5. 

The  Lord's  people  know  their  God  as  a  cove- 
nant God,  reconciled  to  them,  at  peace  with 
them,  and  dwelling  among  them,  through  the 
work  of  Jesus.  Pie  has  made  a  covenant  in 
which  they  are  interested,  from  which  all  their 
blessings  flow,  and  on  which  their  confidence  is 
founded.  Of  this  covenant,  God  is  ever  mind- 
ful. He  is  mindful  of  the  engagements  of  Jesus 
as  our  Surety  ;  of  the  relationship  in  which  He 
was  pleased  to  manifest  Himself,  as  our  Father ; 
of  the  state  in  which  He  viewed  us,  as  poor 
wretched  sinners ;  of  the  provision  He  made  for 
His  own  glory  and  our  needs  ;  of  the  promise 
made  to  Jesus,  including  all  the  promises  made 
to  us  ;  of  the  oath  He  swore ,  that  He  would 
not  be  wroth  Avith  us ;  of  the  blood  of  his  Son, 
as  the  victim  slain  to  confirm  and  ratify  it ;  of 
the  end  He  had  in  view  in  making  it,  even  the 
display  of  all  His  glorious  perfections  in  our 
eternal  salvation.  He  will  ever  be  mindful  of 
His  covenant.  He  cannot  forget  it,  He  will  not 
act  contrary  to  it,  but  will  confirm  it  even  to 
the  end.  Beloved,  let  us  also  be  ever  mindful 
of  His  covenant. 

Firmer  than  heaven  His  covenant  stands: 
Tho'  earth  sliould  shake,  and  skies  depart, 
"We're  safe  in  our  Redeemer's  Iiands, 
Who  bears  our  names  upon  His  heart : 
For  us  He  lived,  and  died,  and  rose, 
And  triumphed  over  all  our  foes. 
222 


AUGUST    6. 


Come  ye  near  unto  me.     Isaiah  xlviii.  16. 

The  believer's  happiness  and  Jehovah's  pleasure 
are  united ;  we  are  only  happy  as  we  are  near 
to  Him,  and  He  is  only  pleased  as  we  cleave 
unto  Him.  He  has  taken  us  into  a  near  rela- 
tionship as  His  children,  people,  and  beloved 
bride ;  He  has  represented  our  union  by  the 
most  striking  figures,  the  branch  in  the  vine,  the 
member  with  the  head,  and  the  building  with 
the  foundation.  He  has  made  His  name  our 
strong  tower.  His  Son  our  fountain  of  supply, 
and  His  secret  place  our  home.  In  living  near 
to  Him,  we  enjoy  the  sweetest  comforts  ;  possess 
unutterable  peace  ;  realize  the  fullest  liberty  ; 
and  find  safety  and  rest.  Our  assurance,  light, 
holiness,  and  strength  come  from  His  presence  ; 
our  misery,  wretchedness,  and  woe,  from  living 
at  a  distance  from  Him.  He  invites  us  this 
morning,  as  Jacob  did  his  beloved  son,  "  Come 
near  unto  me."  He  intends  to  bless  us,  as  that 
patriarch  did  his  child ;  to  discover  Himself 
unto  us  ;  to  show  us  His  covenant  and  secret ; 
to  make  us  understand  His  will  and  word  ;  to 
preserve  us  from  all  evil,  fill  us  with  grace,  and 
conform  us  to  His  image. 


When  trials  vex  my  duubting  mind, 
Jesus,  to  Thy  dear  wounds  TU  flee ; 
No  shelter  can  I  elsewhere  find, 
No  peace  or  comfort  but  in  Thee  : 
To  Thee  my  cause  I  recommend. 
On  Tiieo  for  future  grace  depend. 

223 


AUGUST   7. 


Surely  I  come  quickly.     Rev.  xxii.  20. 

Who  is  this  proposing  to  come  quickly  ?  Is  it 
an  enemy  threatening  us  ?  Is  it  a  stranger  ? 
No — it  is  Jesus  whom  we  love,  speaking  to 
cheer  us.  It  is  Immanuel,  to  whom  we  are 
betrothed  in  righteousness,  judgment,  loving- 
kindness,  mercies,  and  faithfulness.  It  is  our 
Saviour,  who  saved  us  by  His  death,  and  pre- 
serves us  by  His  life.  He  will  come  shortly, 
the  period  cannot  be  far  distant.  He  will  come 
gladly,  with  delight  and  pleasure  to  receive  us 
to  Himself  "  Surely,"  He  says,  "  I  come 
quickly  ;"  and  is  it  not  a  source  of  joy  to  us — 
does  it  not  excite  and  draw  forth  holy  expecta- 
tion ?  He  comes  to  end  our  persecutions,  to  si- 
lence our  complaints,  to  conform  us  to  His  image, 
to  fill  us  with  His  love,  to  clothe  us  with  His 
glory,  and  to  bring  us  grace.  Do  we  say  with 
the  church,  "  Amen,  even  so,  come,  Lord  Jesus  ?" 
Or,  are  we  indifferent  about  His  coming  ?  He 
says,  "  Behold,  I  come  quickly  ;  blessed  is  he  that 
watcheth  and  keepeth  his  garments,  lest  he  walk 
naked  and  they  see  his  shame."  Let  us  look  for, 
and  hasten  to  the  coming  of  the  day  of  God.  He 
comes  for  our  redemption.  His  coming  com- 
pletes our  salvation. 

Fly,  ye  seasons,  fly  still  faster  : 
Let  the  glorious  day  come  on, 
When  we  shall  behold  our  Master 
Seated  on  His  heavenly  throne  ! 

When  the  Saviour 
Shall  descend  to  claim  His  own. 
224 


AUGUST   §. 


Owe  no  man  anything.     Rom.  xiii.  8. 

Rash  speculations  are  inconsistent  with  Clnis- 
tianify ;  and  getting  in  debt  is  as  much  a  breach 
of  a  divine  precept  as  robbery  or  murder.  Every 
believer  should  live  within  his  income,  and  not 
bring  a  disgrace  on  religion,  by  contracting 
debts  which  he  is  unable  to  pay.  If  he  has 
done  so,  he  should  be  very  humble  ;  he  should 
confess  his  sin  before  God,  and  pray  to  be  en- 
abled to  fulfil  his  engagements.  It  is  not  neces- 
sary that  he  should  make  an  appearance,  as  it  is 
called ;  but  it  is  necessary  that  he  should  adorn 
the  doctrine  of  God  his  Saviour.  He  that  is  in 
debt,  and  is  not  grieved  by  it,  humbled  under 
it,  and  striving  to  extricate  himself  from  it,  is  a 
very  suspicious  character,  whatever  profession 
he  may  make.  Our  God  says,  and  He  speaks 
to  all  who  profess  His  name,  "  Owe  no  man 
ANYTHING  BUT  LOVE."  A  Christian's  payments 
should  be  prompt  and  punctual ;  his  word  should 
be  as  firm  as  a  bond,  and  his  promise  as  sacred 
as  an  oath.  Oh,  may  our  God  bring  back  His 
people  to  primitive  simplicity  !  May  they  all  be 
slow  to  promise,  quick  to  perform,  and  so  fulfil 
the  law  of  Christ. 


Let  those  -wlio  bear  the  christian  name 

Their  holy  vows  fulfil ; 
The  saints — the  followers  of  the  Lamb, 

Are  men  of  honor  still. 
Their  Saviour's  precepts  they  obey, 
And  hasten  to  the  judgment  day. 


10^ 


AUGUST   9. 


That  lie  might  deliver  us  from  this  present  evil  world. 
Gal.  i.  4. 

The  whole  world  lieth  in  the  wicked  one,  as  the 
devoted  child  in  the  arms  of  Moloch  ;  or  as  the 
putrid  corpse  in  the  grave,  over  which  is  written, 
"  Here  lieth."  We  were  once  dead  in  sin, 
and  buried  in  corruption,  but  Jesus  Christ  in- 
terfered for  us.  "  He  gave  Himself  for  our  sins, 
that  He  might  deliver  us  from  the  present  evil 
world,  according  to  the  will  of  God  and  our 
Father."  The  world  is  evil,  therefore  we  are 
delivered  from  it.  Jesus  died  to  deliver  us  from 
its  spirit^  by  w^hich  we  are  influenced  in  a  state 
of  nature  ;  from  the  love  of  the  world,  which  is 
enmity  with  God;  from  seeking  satisfaction  in 
the  world,  which  is  idolatry ;  from  its  fearful 
doom,  which  is  eternal  destruction.  He  in- 
tended to  raise  us  above  it,  in  our  desires  and 
pursuits ;  to  lead  us  through  it,  and  glorify  us 
beyond  it.  Let  us  inquire  this  morning.  Are 
we  of  the  world,  or  are  we  delivered  from  it  ? 
Have  we  another  spirit  in  us  ?  Are  we  become 
dead  to  the  world  by  fellowship  with  Christ  in 
His  death  ?  Is  Jesus  loved,  praised,  and  obeyed, 
out  of  gratitude  for  delivering  us  ? 


Jesus,  I  my  cross  have  taken, 
All  to  leave  and  follow  Thee  ; 

Naked,  poor,  despised,  forsaken. 
Thou  from  hence  my  all  shalt  be  : 

Tliou  hast  my  Deliverer  been, 

I  have  Tliy  salvation  seen. 
22G 


AUGUST   10. 


O  Lord,  I  beseech  Tliee,  deliver  my  soul. 
Psalm  cxvi.  4. 

The  prayer  of  faith  is  generally  short,  and  al- 
ways to  the  point.  It  takes  the  soul  and  places 
it  before  God,  in  its  real  state  and  true  charac- 
ter. It  pleads  with  Him  for  what  is  really 
needed,  what  must  be  had.  Th6  believer  often 
needs  deliverance,  and  faith  cries  to  God  for  it. 
His  language  is,  "O  Lord,  I  beseech  thee,  de- 
liver my  soul  from  doubts  and  fears,  which  con- 
tinually beset  me  ;  from  a  spirit  of  bondage, 
which  would  daily  entangle  me;  from  Satan  who 
worries,  harasses,  and  hinders  me ;  from  the  sin 
which  so  easily  besets  me  ;  from  men  who  would 
injure  or  mislead  me  ;  from  my  own  feelings, 
which  daily  burden  me,"  Thus  the  Lord  is  ac- 
knowledged as  the  great  Deliverer ;  our  own  in- 
ability is  practically  confessed  ;  it  is  evident  our 
trials  and  troubles  are  sanctified  ;  the  legitimate 
tendency  of  grace  is  discovered  by  the  earnest- 
ness, simplicity,  importuinity,  and  success  of  our 
prayers.  Be  this  our  daily  cry  until  deliverance 
be  no  longer  needed ;  for  our  God  says,  "  Call 
upon  Me  in  the  day  of  trouble,  I  avill  deliver 

THEE." 

01),  for  that  tenderness  of  heart 

Which  bows  before  the  Lord, 
Acknowledges  how  just  Thou  art, 

And  trembles  at  Thy  word  ! 
Saviour,  to  me  in  pity  give 
The  pledge  Thou  wilt  at  last  receive. 


227 


AUGUST    11. 


Heirs  of  the  kingdom.     James  ii.  5. 

He  raiseth  the  poor  from  the  dust,  and  the  beg- 
gar from  the  dunghill;  such  were  we  by  nature, 
but  through  rich  grace  we  shall  inherit  the 
throne  of  glory.  He  has  prepared  for  us,  prom- 
ised to  us,  and  will  bestow  upon  us  a  kingdom. 
A  kingdom  in  which  his  glory  will  be  seen,  felt, 
and  enjoyed  forever.  In  which  all  His  riches 
of  grace,  mercy,  and  glory  will  be  displayed. 
In  which  peace,  joy,  and  pleasure  will  eternally 
reign.  A  kingdom  which  cannot  be  moved,  and 
will  never  know  a  change.  But  who  are  the 
acknowledged  heirs  ?  The  poor  of  this  world, 
who  are  poor  in  spirit.  The  rich  in  fait>i,  who 
believe  in  God,  in  Jesus,  who  exercise  faith 
on  the  precious  y)romises,  and  whose  faith  is 
proved  to  be  good  by  the  works  they  ])roduce. 
Those  who  love  God,  from  a  knowledge  of 
His  love  to  them,  and  as  the  effect  of  His 
love  being  shed  abroad  in  their  hearts,  by  the 
Holy  Ghost.  Am  I  an  heir  ?  Are  you,  my 
friend  ?  If  so,  rejoice  and  be  exceeding  glad  ; 
imitate  those  who  through  faith  and  patience 
now  inherit  the  promises,  and  the  end  will 
crown  the  whole. 


Tliere  shall  j-oiir  eyes  with  rapture  view 
The  glorious  Friend  who  died  for  you  ; 
That  died  to  ransom,  died  to  raise 
To  crowns  of  joy,  and  songs  of  praise  : 
Jesus,  to  Thee  I  breathe  my  prayer ! 
Reveal,  confirm  my  interest  there. 
228 


AUGUST    12. 


Thou  shall  see  greater  thingii  than  these. 
John  i.  50. 

When  the  eyes  of  our  understanding  are  open- 
ed by  the  Eternal  Spirit,  we  begin  to  see  out  of 
darkness  and  obscurity  ;  but  our  sight  is  imper- 
fect, we  have  seen  but  little  yet,  there  is  much 
more  behind  to  be  revealed  by-and-bye.  We 
shall  see  greater  depths  of  sin  in  our  nature,  and 
greater  depths  of  grace  in  the  person  of  Christ ; 
we  shall  have  clearer  evidences  of  interest  in 
Jesus,  and  see  more  of  His  love  to  us.  We 
shall  experience  the  cleansing  efficacy  of  His 
precious  blood  to  a  greater  extent ;  and  see  the 
power  of  His  arm  displayed  more  visibly  for  our 
deliverance.  We  shall  see  more  of  the  empti- 
ness, vanity,  and  deceitfulness  of  the  world  ; 
and  have  greater  reason  to  rejoice  that  we  are 
delivered  from  it.  We  shall  see  greater  things 
in  our  Bibles,  and  feel  ourselves  under  greater 
obligation  to  the  Holy  Spirit  for  His  teaching. 
AVe  shall  see  Christ  descending,  present  thino^s 
abolished,  and  the  glories  of  eternity  unfoldino^. 
Let  us  seek  greater  things,  for  Jesus  has  prom- 
ised them  ;  and  daily  pray,  "  "What  I  know  not 
teach  Thou  me." 

O  Lord,  bow  little  do  we  know ; 
How  little  of  Thy  presence  feel ; 
While  we  continue  here  below, 
And  in  tlicse  earthly  houses  dwell ! 
"When  wilt  Thou  take  us  up  above, 
To  see  Thy  face  without  a  cloud  ? 


229 


AUGUST    13. 


Men  shall  be  blessed  t»i  Illm.     Psalm  Ixxii.  17. 

Everything  out  of  Christ  is  under  the  curse ; 
all  blessings  are  treasured  up  in  Him,  and  can 
only  bo  received  and  enjoyed  by  union  to  and 
communion  with  Him.  If  in  Him,  He  is  made 
of  God  unto  us,  wisdom,  righteousness,  strength, 
sanctification,  and  redemption ;  if  separate  from 
Him,  His  work  will  profit  us  nothing.  How 
important  then  is  union  to  Jesus !  All  who  are 
in  Him  are  blessed  with  the  favor  of  God,  which 
compasses  them  as  a  shield;  with  access  to  God, 
by  the  Spirit,  as  to  a  kind  and  indulgent  Father ; 
with  the  friendship  of  God  ;  He  calls  them  not 
servants  but  friends,  and  His  friendship  is  a 
good  fortune ;  with  justification  before  God,  as 
the  great  Lawgiver  and  Judge  of  all ;  with 
sanctification  by  God,  to  the  praise,  honor,  and 
glory  of  his  grace  ;  and  ultimately  they  will  be 
glorified  with  God  through  eternal  ages.  All 
things  are  theirs,  and  for  them  is  laid  up  a 
crown  of  righteousness,  which  fadetli  not  away  ; 
a  treasure  in  heaven  which  corrupteth  not,  and 
where  thieves  cannot  steal.  Oh,  blessed  state! 
Oh,  happy  persons !  But  this  honor  have  all  the 
saints. 


Blessings  abound  where  Jesus  reigns : 
The  prisoner  leaps  to  lose  his  chains, 
The  weary  find  eternal  rest, 
And  all  the  sons  of  want  are  blest : 
In  Him  the  tribes  of  Adam  boast, 
More  blessings  than  their  fatlier  lost. 


AUGUST    14. 


In  the  day  of  adversity,  consider.     Eccles.  vii.  14. 

Circumstances  sometimes  regulate  duties. 
The  Lord's  people  have  to  pass  through  many- 
changes  ;  they  are  strangers  and  pilgrims  here. 
Sometimes  prosperity  calls  for  rejoicing,  and 
sometimes  adversity  calls  for  consideration.  If 
prayer  appears  to  be  shut  out,  our  petitions 
seem  to  be  denied,  and  we  camiot  enjoy  the  life 
and  power  of  religion  ;  it  is  the  day  of  adversity. 
If  providence  frowns,  and  the  heart  contracts 
and  becomes  hani,  it  is  a  day  of  adversity;  now 
we  should  consider.  Is  there  not  a  cause  ?  What 
is  it  ?  Has  sin  been  indulged  ?  or  mercy  slighted  ? 
or  duty  neglected?  or  self  deified?  What  is 
the  INTENTION?  Is  it  to  correct,  reprove,  and 
restore  us  ?  How  should  we  now  act  ?  Let  us 
take  shame  to  ourselves  ;  justify  our  God  ;  confess 
sin ;  lament  over  our  folly  ;  crave  pardon  ;  and 
plead  for  restoration.  It  is  our  comfort  to  know 
that  the  Lord  calls  us  to  return,  declares  He  is 
ready  to  forgive,  promises  a  gracious  reception 
and  assures  us  He  will  heal  our  backslidings  and 
love  us  freely.  Let  us,  believing,  look  for  His 
blessinsr. 


Of  my  extreme  distresses 

The  author  is  the  Lord : 
Whate'er  His  ■wisdom  pleases, 

His  name  be  still  adored. 
If  still  He  prove  my  patience, 

And  to  the  utmost  prove. 
Yet  all  His  dispensations 

Are  faithfulness  and  love, 

2.S1 


AUGUST   15. 


The  expectation  of  the  poor  shall  not  perish  forever. 
Psaltn  ix.  1 8. 

The  promises  of  God  raise  the  expectation  of 
His  people,  and  His  providence  tries  it ;  what 
the  promise  has  engaged  to  give,  providence 
seems  loath  to  bestow.  But  God  is  faithful. 
We  may  expect  the  Lord  to  appear  for  us  in 
every  trouble,  if  our  faith  is  fixed  on  His  word, 
and  prayer  is  daily  sent  up  to  His  throne.  We 
may  expect  to  be  supported  under  all  our  trials, 
and  to  be  supplied  with  all  necessary  good,  if 
we  are  making  God  our  portion,  and  seeking  to 
glorify  Him.  We  may  expect  to  be  pardoned, 
justified,  and  saved  ;  if  we  believe  with  the  heart, 
confess  with  the  mouth,  and  walk  according  to 
our  profession.  God  notices  our  expectations, 
Jesus  pleads  that  they  may  be  realized;  and 
nothing  shall  be  able  to  turn  away  the  bountiful 
hand  of  our  God.  He  will  regard  the  prayer  of 
the  destitute,  and  not  despise  their  prayer. 
Our  fears  may  be  strong,  and  our  doubts  may 
be  many  ;  but  our  security  is  in  the  character, 
word,  and  work  of  our  God  and  Saviour.  He 
will  not  fail  us,  nor  forsake  us,  until  He  hath 
done  all  which  He  hath  spoken  to  us  of. 


Soon  the  delightful  day  will  come, 
When  my  dear  Lord  will  bring  me  home, 

And  I  shall  see  His  face ; 
Then,  with  my  Saviour,  Brother,  Friend, 
A  blest  eternity  I'll  spend, 

Triumphant  in  His  grace. 
232 


AUGUST    16. 


Remember  the  Lord.     Nehemiah  iv.  1-1. 

He  is  the  great  author  of  your  being,  and  the 
only  proper  object  of  your  faith,  fear,  and  wor- 
ship. Remember  the  promises  He  has  made, 
the  deliverances  He  has  wrought,  the  blessings 
He  has  conferred,  the  invitations  He  has  given, 
and  the  relations  He  now  fills.  Remember  Him 
in  calamity,  to  trust  Him ;  in  prosperity,  to 
praise  Him  ;  in  danger,  to  call  upon  Him  ;  in 
difficulty,  to  expect  His  interference.  Remem- 
ber to  obey  his  commands;  to  attend  to  His 
exhortations ;  to  keep  His  company ;  to  seek 
His  blessing  ;  and  to  aim  at  His  glory  in  all  you 
do.  Remember  Him,  for  it  is  your  duty  ;  it  is 
your  privilege.  Remember  Him,  in  order  to 
strengthen  your  faith  ;  as  an  antidote  to  your 
fears ;  as  a  source  of  encouragement  to  your 
souls  ;  and  as  a  preventative  to  sin.  Remember 
He  is  holy,  just,  and  good ;  and  He  will  be 
glorified  in  all  them  that  draw  nigh  unto  Him. 
Whatever  or  whoever  you  forget,  always  "  re- 
member THE  Lord."  He  is  your  life,  your 
strength,  your  food,  your  portion,  your  God,  your 
all.  Remember  Him,  for  he  never  forgets  you ; 
cleave  to  Him,  for  He  will  never  forsake  you. 


Oh,  may  I  still  from  sin  depart ! 
A  wise  and  understanding  heart, 

Jesus,  to  me  be  given  ! 
And  let  me  through  Tliy  Spirit  know, 
To  glorify  my  God  below. 

And  find  my  way  to  heaven. 

233 


AUGUST    17. 


Li  quietness  and  in  confidence  shall  be  your  strength. 
Isaiah  xxx.  15. 

Quietness  is  expressive  of  submission  to  the 
holy  will  of  God,  and  supposes  a  v/aiting  upon 
Him  as  directed  by  His  word.  It  is  the  believ- 
er's duty  to  be  silent  before  God  while  He  is 
working,  being  assured  that  his  best  interests  are 
secured  by  the  promises,  and  that  all  things  will 
be  made  plain  by-and-bye.  He  should  confide 
in  the  Lord's  word  ;  and  rely  on  the  Lord's  wis- 
dom, love,  and  ability.  Our  confidence  must 
arise  from  God's  word,  a  review  of  His  dealings 
with  His  people,  and  the  relation  in  which  He 
stands  to  us.  We  may  be  confident,  for  God 
who  has  spoken  is  true,  and  hath  confirmed  his 
word  in  every  generation.  Quietly  confiding 
in  God  will  give  us  strength  ;  we  then  put  His 
love  and  faithfulness  to  the  trial ;  we  honor  Him 
by  our  confidence,  and  He  will  honor  us  by  ap- 
pearing for  us.  Let  us  endeavor  to  be  still, 
to  be  SILENT  before  Him,  when  He  is  raised 
up  out  of  His  holy  habitation.  Let  us  wait  for 
Him,  for  it  is  good  that  a  man  should  both  hope 
and  quietly  wait  for  the  salvation  of  the  Lord. 
Beware  of  complaining  or  replying  against  God. 


When,  my  Saviour,  shall  I  be 
Totally  resigned  to  Thee  ? 
Poor  and  vile  in  my  own  eyes, 
Only  iu  Thy  wisdom  wise. 
Only  guided  by  Thy  light, 
Only  mighty  in  Thy  might ! 
234 


AUGUST    18. 


The  Lord  is  nigh  unto  all  them  that  call  upon  Him. 
Psalm  cxlv.  18. 

Real  prayer  is  calling  upon  God.  He  is  our 
Father  ;  we  are  His  children.  We  have  nothing  ; 
He  has  all  things  to  bestow,  and  is  willing  to 
give  them.  From  a  sense  of  need,  we  call  on 
the  Lord  for  a  supply  ;  from  a  sense  of  weak- 
ness, we  call  on  Him  for  strength ;  from  a  sense 
of  guilt,  we  call  on  Him  for  pardon.  Being 
diseased,  we  cry  for  health  ;  being  troubled,  for 
comfort  and  peace;  being  in  distress,  for  relief 
and  deliverance.  We  go  out  of  self  to  Jesus, 
accepting  His  invitation,  to  plead  His  promise, 
and  find  Him  faithful.  Our  God  is  always  near 
the  praying  soul,  not  merely  as  the  omnipresent 
Jehovah,  but  as  our  faithful  Friend.  He  is  near 
us,  lovingly  to  listen  to  what  we  have  to  lay  be- 
fore Him ;  mercifully  to  relieve  our  miseries,  be 
they  what  they  may  ;  graciously  to  help  in  every 
difficulty  or  danger.  Beloved,  our  God  is  near 
us.  He  is  attentive  to  us  this  morning ;  let  us 
call  upon  Him  in  spirit  and  in  truth.  Let  us 
lay  all  our  concerns  before  Him  ;  He  loves  to 
listen  to  the  often-told  tale ;  He  has  patience 
with  us,  blessings  for  us,  and  will  do  us  good. 


0  Lord,  each  clay  renew  my  strength, 
And  let  me  see  Thy  face  at  length, 

With  all  Thy  people  yonder  ; 
With  them  in  heaven  Thy  love  declare, 
And  sing  Thy  praise  forever  there, 

With  gratitude  and  •wonder. 


AUGUST    19. 


My  presence  shall  go  with  thee.     ExoJ.  xxxiii.  14. 

So  the  Lord  promised  Moses,  and  so  He  has 
promised  us.  Let  us  never  venture  anywhere, 
if  we  have  reason  to  think  the  Lord  will  not 
favor  us  with  His  presence  there.  The  Lord's 
presence  produces  holiness,  imparts  power,  fires 
\vith  zeal,  brings  into  union,  and  often  fills  with 
comfort,  joy  and  peace.  His  presence  is  our 
glory,  and  it  will  yield  us  support  under  losses, 
crosses,  and  bereavements.  Let  us  plead  for 
the  Lord's  presence  to  go  with  us  ;  let  us  ex- 
pect it ;  let  us  not  be  satisfied  with  anything 
else.  He  went  with  Moses,  and  he  persevered  ; 
with  Joshua,  and  he  conquered ;  with  David, 
and  he  reached  the  throne  ;  with  Paul,  and  he 
was  more  than  a  conqueror.  Nothing  can  be  a 
substitute  for  the  Lord's  presence;  and  as  it  is 
so  graciously  promised,  let  us  not  attempt  to 
find  a  substitute,  but  daily  cry,  "  If  thy  pres- 
ence GO  NOT  WITH  ME,  CARRY    ME    NOT  UP  HENCE." 

Jesus  has  saiil,  "If  a  man  love  me,  he  will 
keep  my  words ;  and  my  Father  will  love 
him,  and  we  will  come  unto  him,  and  make 
our  abode  with  him." 


O  Lord,  be  ever  near  us, 

Fix  in  our  hearts  Tliy  home ; 
By  Thine  appearing  cheer  us, 

And  let  Thy  kingdom  come  t 
Fulfil  our  expectation. 

And  give  our  souls  to  prove 
Thine  uttermost  salvation, 

Thine  everlasting  love. 


AUGUST  2  0. 


The  Lord  preserveth  all  them  that  love  Him. 
Psalm  cxlv.  20. 

All  who  know  the  Lord  love  Him,  and  nono 
can  love  Him  until  taught  by  His  Spirit.  If  wo 
know  God  in  Clirist  as  our  covenant  God,  and 
enjoy  our  interest  in  Him,  we  shall  love  Him 
supremely,  above  our  tranquillity,  natural  re- 
lations, earthly  possessions,  gifts,  and  reputation. 
We  discover  in  Him,  greater  glory,  more  real 
worth,  pre-eminent  beauty,  and  superior  excel- 
lence. Those  who  love  Him  are  preserved  by 
Him.  He  preserves  them  in  trouble,  from  its 
natural  effects ;  in  the  world,  from  its  spirit 
and  doom  ;  from  enemies,  evils,  and  wrath. 
His  loving-kindness  and  truth  will  continually 
preserve  them;  yea.  He  will  preserve  them  unto 
His  kingdom  and  glory.  Bat  He  preserves  us 
in  the  use  of  means  ;  let  us  therefore  walk  be- 
fore Him ;  confide  in  Him  ;  wait  upon  Him  ; 
and  often  demand  of  our  hearts.  Do  we  love 
the  Lord  ?  Are  we  desiring  to  love  Him  ?  Are 
we  preserved  from  sin,  the  world,  and  all  evil  ? 
If  so,  we  must  ascribe  it  to  free  and  sovereign 
grace ;  if  not,  let  us  search  and  try  our  ways, 
and  turn  again  to  the  Lord.  He  bids.  He  ex- 
horts ns  to  come. 

Infinite  grace !  almighty  charms  ! 
Stand  in  amaze,  ye  rolling  skies  ! 
Jesus,  the  God,  extends  His  arms — 
Hangs  on  the  cross  of  love,  and  dies. 
Sure  I  must  love ;  my  passions  move  : 
This  heart  shall  yield  to  death  or  love. 


AUGUST   21. 


Shall  not  God  avenge  His  own  elect  ? 
Luke  xviii.  7. 

The  Lord's  people  are  often  oppressed,  they 
are  tempted  to  bo  revengeful,  but  our  God 
says,  "  Vengeance  is  mine,  I  will  repay." 
Under  man's  wrath,  remember  you  are  the  ob- 
jects of  the  Lord's  love  ;  when  men  oppress  you, 
rest  assured  that  God  will  befriend  you.  Carry 
your  case  to  Him,  spread  the  whole  of  the 
matter  before  Him  ;  plead  with  Him,  and  then 
rest  assured  that  He  will  appear  for  you.  The 
master  will  interfere  for  a  servant  he  values  ; 
the  parent  for  the  child  he  loves,  and  the  hus- 
band for  the  bride  he  has  chosen:  ''and  shall 
not  God  avenge  His  own  elect  ?  I  tell  you  He 
will  avenge  them  speedily."  Cry  to  Him  day 
and  night,  look  to  no  other  quarter  for  relief  or 
deliverance  ;  never  encourage  any  unholy  feel- 
ings, but  pray  for  grace  to  imitate  your  insulted, 
persecuted,  and  crucified  Lord.  Consider  Him 
who  endured  such  contradiction  of  sinners  against 
Himself,  lest  ye  be  weary  and  faint  in  your 
minds.  He  will  tread  all  your  enemies  under 
His  feet  shortly.  He  is  able  to  avenge  you,  and 
His  word  is  passed. 


Shall  we  distrust  our  faithful  Ood, 
Or  question  His  almvghty  power, 
Because  lie  doth  not  our  desires 
Accomplish  in  a  little  liour  ? 
He  will  avengo  llis  own  elect, 
And  evermore  Hi^  pain^s  protect. 
2S8 


AUGUST    2  2. 


They  that  seek  the  Lord  shall  not  %mnt  any  good  thing. 
Psalra  xxxiv.  10. 

What  a  comfortable  promise  is  this  to  the 
poor,  weak,  and  timid  Christian  ;  he  has  not 
attained  to  a  state  of  assurance,  but  He  is  seek- 
ing the  Lord,  and  here  his  God  promises  him 
that  he  shall  not  want  any  good  thing.  He 
feels  that  he  has  no  good  thing  in  him,  finds  he 
can  do  no  good  thing  of  himself,  fears  that  good 
will  never  be  enjoyed  by  him  ;  but  his  God  as- 
sures him,  no  good  thing  shall  be  withheld  from 
him.  His  God  will  pardon  his  sin,  justify  his 
person,  strengthen  his  soul,  supply  his  needs, 
comfort  his  heart,  conquer  his  foes,  sanctify  his 
trials,  and  give  him  victory  over  death.  He  shall 
not  want  long,  if  God  is  able  to  supply  ;  he  can- 
not be  neglected,  if  our  God  is  true  ;  he  shall 
receive  all  that  is  good,  and  when,  and  as  it  will 
do  him  most  good.  Let  us  therefore  seek  the 
Lord,  and  rest  assured  that  He  will  withhold 
from  us  no  good  thing.  The  silver  and  the  gold 
are  His,  and  He  says,  "  If  ye,  being  evil,  know 
how  to  give  good  things  unto  your  children,  hoav 
mucH  MORE  shall  your  heavenly  Father  give  good 
things  to  them  that  ask  Him." 


If  earthly  parents  hear 
Their  children  when  they  cry, 
If  they  -with  love  sincere 
Tlieir  children's  wants  supply, 
Much  more  will  God  His  love  display. 
And  answer  when  His  children  pray. 

239 


AUGUST    23. 


God,  even  our  oion  God,  shall  bless  us. 
Psalm  Ixvii.  G. 

Hk  lias  pledged  Himself  to  do  so  in  His  word, 
and  He  deliglits  to  make  good  His  promise.  He 
is  our  God  by  covenant ;  by  a  spiritual  birth  ; 
through  Christ  Jesus  ;  and  at  our  own  desire,  re- 
quest, and  consent.  He  is  the  great  God,  who 
fills  heaven  and  earth  ;  the  all-sufficient  God, 
who  has  all  resources  in  Himself;  the  unchang- 
ing God,  who  is  eternally  the  same.  He  es- 
pouseth  the  quarrel  of  His  people,  He  dignifies 
and  ennobles  them,  and  proves  Himself  gracious 
and  merciful  unto  them.  He  blesseth  them  in- 
deed ;  and  if  others  curse,  He  turneth  the  curse 
into  a  blessing.  We  may  rest  fully  assured  of 
this  pleasing  fact,  "  God,  even  our  own  (tod, 
WILL  BLESS  us."  He  has  done  so  in  Christ  be- 
fore time.  He  has  promised  to  do  so  through  time, 
and  when  time  shall  be  no  more.  He  will  bless 
us  in  temporals  and  spirituals,  He  will  bless  us 
wherever  we  are.  Let  us  believe  the  fact,  and 
plead  for  its  realization  in  our  experience  ;  this 
will  embolden  us  in  danger,  fortify  us  against 
fear,  and  keep  us  in  perfect  peace.  Let  us  trust 
in  Him,  and  He  will  bless  us  ;  and  so  shall  we 
rejoice  in  Him. 

Rise,  my  soul,  with  ardor  rise ! 
Breathe  thy  wishes  to  the  skies  ! 
Freely  pour  out  all  Thy  mind, 
Seek,  and  thou  art  sure  to  find  ; 
Ready  art  thou  to  receive, 
Readier  is  thy  God  to  give. 
240 


AUGUST   24. 


A  living  sacrifice.     Rom.  xii.  1. 

When  a  beast  was  set  apart  for  sacrifice,  it  was 
considered  sacred,  and  was  carefully  preserved 
from  all  injury.  The  Christian  is  devoted;  he 
is  intended  for  the  altar,  his  body  as  well  as 
his  soul,  and  he  is  required  to  present  it  to  God 
holy,  acceptable,  as  a  reasonable  service.  It  is 
not  to  be  defiled  by  fornication,  by  intoxication, 
by  gluttony,  by  filth,  by  pride  ;  he  is  to  look 
upon  it  as  the  Lord's,  bought  with  the  blood  of 
Jesus,  consecrated  as  the  temple  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  set  apart  to  be  the  habitation  of  a  Holy 
God.  The  believer's  body  should  not  be  united 
by  marriage  to  an  unbeliever;  this  is  sacrilege, 
for  the  vessel  is  holy ;  it  is  rebellion,  for  it  is 
plainly  and  positively  forbidden ;  it  is  sinning 
wilfully,  and  provoking  the  eyes  of  divine 
holiness.  It  is  offering  insult  to  the  GoJ  of 
love,  and  calling  upon  Him  to  vindicate  His 
injured  mercy.  Believer,  present  thy  body  daily 
to  God,  washed  in  pure  water;  that  is,  cleansed 
from  defilement  by  observing  His  word ;  never 
call  that  common  which  God  has  consecrated, 
or  debase  that  which  He  has  devoted  to  Him- 
self. 

Lord,  it  is  but  just  and  right 
That  I  should  be  wholly  thine  ; 
Only  in  Thy  will  delight, 
In  Thy  blessed  service  join  ; 
Now  my  sacrifice  receive, 
Give  me  grace  to  Thee  to  live. 


241 


11 


AUGUST   25. 


The  Spirit  helpeth  our  injirmitics.     Rom.  viii.  26. 

We  are  compassed  with  infirmities  ;  we  know 
but  little  of  ourselves ;  we  know  not  what 
would  be  best  for  us ;  we  know  not  what  is 
corning  upon  us  ;  we  know  not  Satan's  position 
or  design  ;  we  know  but  little  of  God's  provi- 
sion or  intention ;  we  are  as  weak  as  we  are 
ignorant ;  weak  to  withstand  evil ;  v/eak  to 
perform  good ;  weak  to  obtain  benefits ;  our 
infirmities,  many  of  them  are  constitutional, 
arising  from  our  tempers  and  dispositions  ;  from 
bodily  ailments ;  and  from  the  smallness  of  our 
capacities.  But  though  thus  infirm,  Jesus  is 
touched  with  a  sympathetic  feeling  for  us;  and 
the  Holy  Spirit  is  given  to  assist  us.  He  teaches 
us  what  we  want ;  leads  us  to  the  precious 
promises ;  furnishes  us  with  the  prevailing  plea ; 
excites  us  ta  pray^  and  assists  us  in  prayer. 
He  produces  the  ardent  desire ;  bestows  the 
wrestling  power ;  and  warms  the  affections 
while  pleading ;  gives  us  such  a  keen  sense  of 
what  we  need,  and  such  an  ardent  desire  after 
it,  that  unutterable  groans  are  begotten,  to  which 
God  attends.  Let  us  daily  seek  the  Spirit's 
power  to  help. 

Spirit  of  interceding  grace, 

I  know  not  how  or  what  to  pray  ; 

Relieve  my  utter  helplessness, 
Thy  power  into  my  heart  convey ; 

That  God,  acknowledging  my  erroan. 

May  answer,  in  my  prayers.  His  own. 

242 


AUGUST    2  6. 


J%e  unsearchable  riches  of  Chrht.     Eph.  iii.  8.     Rom.  vii.  4. 

Never  forget  that  Jesus  is  our  Brother,  and 
that  He  has  devoted  all  His  riches  to  us,  so 
that  the  riches  of  Jesus  are  the  Christian's  for- 
tune. "  Ye  know  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  that,  though  He  was  rich,  yet  for  our 
sakes  He  became  poor,  that  we  through  His 
poverty  might  be  rich."  He  employed  all  He 
possessed  for  our  redemption,  sanctification,  and 
salvation  ;  and  now,  at  the  right  hand  of  the 
Majesty  on  high.  He  giveth  liberally,  and  up- 
braideth  not.  He  has  riches  of  grace ;  riches 
of  mercy  ;  and  riches  of  glory.  The  residue  of 
the  Spirit  is  with  Him.  He  has  promised 
largely ;  He  has  proved  His  readiness  to  bestow, 
in  the  most  wonderful  way ;  let  us  therefore  ex- 
pect great  things  from  Him,  for  He  has  un- 
searchable RICHES.  O  believer,  look  not  at  thy 
poverty,  at  thy  wants,  or  thy  circumstances ;  but 
look  at  Jesus;  all  things  are  under  His  feet,  all 
blessings  are  at  His  disposal,  and  His  heart  is 
set  upon  thee  to  do  thee  good  !  He  will  supply 
all  thy  needs  while  on  earth,  and  afterwards 
receive  thee  to  glory.  My  soul,  thy  Jesus  has 
all  thou  needest ;  therefore  look  to  Him,  and 
Him  alone ! 

Possessing  Chinst,  I  all  possess, 
Strength,  wisdom,  sanctifying  grace, 

And  righteousness  complete : 
Bold,  in  His  name,  I  dare  draw  nigh, 
Pnr„i-p  thp  Ruler  f>f  th?  Mr-, 

And  a!i  ilis  justice  mnei. 

2!n 


AUGUST    2  7. 


We  should  bring  forth  fruit  unto  God. 

Without  union  to  Christ,  there  can  be  no  good 
works;  and  until  we  are  dead  to  the  law  we 
cannot  be  married  to  Christ.  We  must  see 
that  there  is  neither  help  nor  hope  for  us  in  any 
law  that  God  has  given  ;  that  only  grace  can 
save  us,  before  we  shall  be  willing  to  take  Christ 
as  God  has  set  Him  forth  in  the  everlasting 
gospel.  Being  married  to  Christ,  we  renounce 
our  own  name  and  take  His ;  we  live  upon  His 
fulness,  walk  by  His  word,  and  aim  to  please 
Him  in  all  things.  By  His  grace  we  perform 
good  works ;  and  through  His  merit,  and  His 
name,  they  are  accepted  as  evidences  of  our  love, 
proofs  of  our  sanctification,  and  fruits  of  our 
oneness  with  Him.  He  that  is  joined  to  the 
Lord  is  one  spirit  with  Him ;  and  it  becomes 
his  meat  and  drink  to  do  the  will  of  God. 
Without  union  to  Christ  we  can  do  nothing 
acceptable  to  God  ;  being  married  to  Him,  our 
poor,  imperfect,  and  (in  themselves)  worthless 
performances,  are    acceptable    and  well-pleasing 

to      Grod.  No      UNION     NO      FRUIT,    NO      FRUIT      NO 

UNION.  Beloved,  are  we  bringing  forth  fruit 
unto  G-od  ?  Do  we  bring  forth  much  fruit  ? 
Herein  is  our  Father  glorified,  that  we  bear 
much  fruit. 


Blest  Jesus,  animate  my  heart ; 

Let  Thy  rich  grace  abound  ; 
So,  to  the  honor  of  Tliy  name, 

Shall  plenteous  fruit  be  found. 


21-t 


AUGUST   28. 


Being  justified  freely  by  His  grace. 
Rom.  iii.  24. 

It  was  a  solemn  question  which  was  proposed 
in  the  days  of  old,  "How  can  man  be  just  with 
God  ?"  Man  is  without  righteousness ;  he  is 
chargeable  with  many  crimes ;  he  is  brought  in 
guilty,  and  condemned  by  God's  holy  law  ;  and 
he  has  no  excuse  to  make.  His  mouth  is  stop- 
ped. We  feel  this  to  be  our  situation  by  nature. 
But  the  Lord  who  is  our  Judge,  hath  devised  a 
way  by  which  He  can  be  just  and  yet  justify  us. 
It  is  by  grace.  He  justifies,  or  acquits  us  from 
all  charges ;  pronounces  us  righteous ;  accepts 
us ;  and  introduces  us  into  His  favor,  friendship, 
and  fellowship,  freely;  without  anything  being 
done  or  suffered  by  us.  He  presents  us  with 
the  work  of  Jesus,  by  which  all  our  debts  are 
paid  ;  our  righteousness  is  wrought  out;  the  law 
and  government  of  God  are  honored  ;  and  a  good 
title  to  eternal  life  is  made  out ;  we  receive 
this  work  by  faith,  which  He  also  bestows,  and 
we  are  "  justified  from  all  things."  Not  one 
charge  remains.  There  is  no  condemnation. 
But  we  are  justified  freely  by  grace  without  the 
works  of  the  law. 


Slain  in  the  guilty  sinner's  stead, 
Jesus,  Thy  righteousness  I  plead, 

And  Thine  atoning  blood : 
That  righteousness  ray  robe  shall  be; 
Thy  merit  shall  avail  for  me, 

And  bring  me  near  to  God. 

245 


A  U  G  U  S  T    2  9. 


They  all  slumbered  and  slept.     Matt.  xxv.  5. 

When  we  think  of  the  warnings  Jesus  has  given, 
the  promises  He  has  made,  and  the  precepts  He 
has  dehvered,  we  are  ready  to  conclude  that 
His  people  must  be  always  active  and  always 
happy.  But  when  we  look  around  us,  or  when 
we  look  at  our  own  course,  we  are  obliged  to 
lament  that  this  is  not  th-^-  case.  Jesus  is  gone 
to  receive  a  kingdom  and  to  return  ;  He  has 
given  talents  to  his  servants,  and  to  every  man 
HIS  AVORK,  and  commanded  the  porter  to  watch. 
But  it  is  said  of  the  wise,  as  well  as  the  foolish 
virgins,  "  they  all  slumbered  and  slept."  Are 
we  awake  to  our  duties,  to  our  privileges,  to  our 
expectations  ?  Are  we  looking,  longing,  and  pre- 
paring ibr  the  coming  of  Jesus?  Are  we  sober 
and  vigilant,  because  our  adversary  the  devil,  as 
a  roaring  lion,  is  going  about  seeking  whom  he 
may  devour  ?  Are  we  active  for  God  ?  Are 
we  hasting  home  ?  Do  we  pass  the  time  of  our 
sojourning  here  in  fear?  Is  the  talent  in  the 
napkin,  or  at  the  bank  ?  Let  us  not  sleep  as 
do  others,  but  let  us  watch  and  be  sober.  Be- 
hold the  judge  standeth  before  the  door.  It  is 
high  time  to  awake  out  of  sleep. 

He  comes,  He  comes  to  call 

The  nations  to  His  bar  ; 

And  take  to  glory  all 

Who  meet  for  glory  are : 
Make  ready  for  your  full  reward ; 
Go  forth  with  joy  to  meet  your  Lord. 

246 


AUGUST    3  0. 


He  will  not  always  chide.     Psalm  ciiL  9. 

If  we  sin,  our  heavenly  Father  will  correct  us, 
in  order  to  reclaim  us ;  His  strokes  often  fall 
heavy,  and  the  effects  remain  for  a  long  time. 
But  He  will  not  always  chide ;  when  we  repent 
and  confess.  He  pardons  and  restores.  His 
anger  is  but  for  a  moment ;  but  His  mercy  is 
everlasting.  He  loves  when  He  frowns,  and 
pities  while  He  reproves.  "  The  Lord  is  gra- 
cious, full  of  compassion,  and  plenteous  in  mer- 
cy; He  hath  not  dealt  with  us  after  our  sins, 
nor  rewarded  us  according  to  our  iniquities,  for 
as  the  heaven  is  high  above  the  earth,  so  great 
is  His  mercy  toward  them  that  fear  Him."  Let 
us  not  therefore  despise  the  chastening  of  the 
Lord,  nor  faint  when  we  are  rebuked  of  Him; 
for  whom  the  Lord  loveth  He  chasteneth,  and 
scourgeth  every  son  whom  He  receiveth.  In  a 
little  wrath  He  may  hide  His  face  from  us  for 
a  moment ;  but  with  everlasting  kindness  will 
He  have  mercy  on  us,  and  prove  Himself  our 
Redeemer.  His  frowns  are  transient,  but  His 
love  is  everlasting.  His  strokes  are  few  and 
light,  but  He  daily  loadeth  us  with  benefits ; 
and  crowns  the  year  with  His  bounty. 

God  will  not  always  chide : 

And  when  His  strokes  are  felt, 
His  strokes  are  fewer  than  our  crimes, 

And  lighter  than  our  guilt. 
He  cliides  us  with  a  Father's  heart, 
That  we  from  Him  may  not  depart 

*      247 


AUGUST    31. 


The  Lord  is  good  tmto  than  that  wait  for  Him. 
Lam.  iii.  25. 

The  Lord  is  good  to  all,  and  His  tender  mer- 
cies are  over  all  His  works  ;  but  He  is  especially 
benevolent,  kind,  and  attentive  to  the  praying, 
waiting  soul.  He  has  prepared  of  His  goodness 
for  the  poor,  and  His  goodness  is  ever  great  tow- 
ards us.  He  bids  us  ask,  promises  to  bestow, 
makes  us  wait,  and  then  blesses  us  indeed. 
We  have  proved  Him  to  be  good  ;  but  if  we  had 
more  faith  in  Him,  and  were  more  earnest  with 
Him,  we  should  see  and  enjoy  His  goodness  in 
a  much  greater  degree.  He  delivered  David 
from  the  horrible  pit ;  Jeremiah  from  the  dun- 
geon ;  Daniel  from  the  lions ;  Peter  from  the 
waves ;  and  Paul  from  the  forty  Jews.  "  The 
Lord  is  good,  a  stronghold  in  the  day  of  trouble  ; 
and  He  knoweth  them  that  trust  in  Him."  He 
will  renew  our  strength,  illumine  our  path,  take 
vengeance  on  our  foes,  and  introduce  us  into  the 
glorious  liberty  of  the  sons  of  God.  Let  us  wait 
for  Him  in  faith,  look  for  Him  in  hope,  and 
plead  with  Him  to  work  in  us  all  the  good 
pleasure  of  His  will,  and  the  work  of  faith  with 
power.     Wait  for  the  Lord,  and  prove  Him  good. 

Jesus,  preserve  my  soul  from  sin, 
Nor  let  me  faint  for  want  of  Thee ; 
I'll  wait  till  Tliou  appear  within. 
And  plant  Thy  heavenly  love  in  me  : 
In  every  soul  that  waits  for  Thee, 
Thou  wilt  Thy  goodness,  Lord,  display 

248 


SEPTEMBER    1. 


Tlie  Deliverer.     Rom.  xi.  26. 

The  Lord  Jesus  Christ  is  anointed  and  ap- 
pointed to  deliver  His  people  whenever  they  need 
His  aid  ;  for  this  purpose  all  the  treasures  of 
wisdom  and  knowledge  are  stored  in  Him,  au- 
thority over  all  flesh  is  given  to  Him,  and  every 
attribute  of  Deity  can  be  exerted  by  him.  We 
are  not  left  to  the  mercy  of  men,  we  are  not 
expected  to  deliver  ourselves,  but  we  are  to  look 
to  Jesus,  who  is  glorified  in  delivering  us  from 
all  evil,  and  preserving  us  to  His  eternal  king- 
dom and  glory.  To  Him  we  are  to  repair  in 
every  trial,  from  Him  we  are  to  expect  de- 
liverance in  every  danger;  He  is  in  office  on 
purpose  to  hear  us,  appear  for  us,  and  bless  us. 
He  delivers  in  temporals  as  well  as  in  spirituals, 
from  internal  and  external  foes.  Let  us  remem- 
ber this  title  of  our  beloved  Lord,  and  make  use 
of  Him  as  the  Deliverer,  in  preference  to 
every  other ;  apply  to  Him  first  in  every  diffi- 
culty, rely  on  Him  with  confidence  in  every 
trial,  and  He  will  deliver  you  until  deliverance 
is  no  longer  required.  "  He  will  deliver  thee 
in  six  troubles,  and  in  seven  shall  no  evil 
touch  thee." 

Why  should  Hig  people  now  be  sad  ? 
None  have  such  reason  to  be  glad 

As  those  redeemed  to  God ; 
Jesus  the  mighty  Saviour  lives, 
To  them  eternal  life  He  gives, 

The  purchase  of  His  blood. 


249 


11* 


SEPTEMBER   2. 


Be  not  hifjh-miiuled,  hit  fear.     Rom.  xi.  20. 

Believers  are  sometimes  tempted  to  think  more 
highly  of  themselves  than  they  ought  to  think  ; 
they  forget  that  they  are  indebted  to  the  free, 
sovereign,  and  distinguishing  grace  of  God,  for 
all  the  difference  there  is  between  them  and  the 
vilest  of  the  vile.  They  should  consider  they 
are  still  weak,  and  liable  to  be  overcome ;  fool- 
ish, and  prone  to  wander;  sinful,  and  easily 
wrought  upon  ;  that  Satan  is  strong  and  deter- 
mined ;  subtle  and  insinuating  ;  malicious  and 
designing  ;  active  and  persevering  ;  that  the 
world  is  alluring  and  ensnaring  ;  treacherous 
and  vain  ;  attracting  and  deceitful ;  and  this 
would  preserve  them  from  being  too  secure.  A 
high-minded  Christian  is  sure  to  be  unfruitful, 
and  is  generally  left  to  fall.  Therefore  let  him 
that  thinketh  he  standeth  take  heed.  David 
fell,  Peter  fell,  and  thousands  beside  have  fallen ; 
and  they  exhort  us  with  groans,  sighs,  and  tears, 
"  Be  not  high-minded,  but  fear."  "  Work  out 
your  own  salvation  with  fear  and  trembling." 
Let  us  cultivate  humility  of  mind,  and  habitual 
dependence  upon  God  ;  so  shall  we  be  safe,  holy, 
and  happy. 

Je3U8,  if  Thou  withdraw  Thy  hand, 

That  moment  sees  me  fall ; 
Oh,  may  I  ne'er  on  self  depend, 

But  look  to  Thee  for  all : 
Lead  me  in  all  Thy  righteous  ways, 
Make  plain  Thy  path  before  Thy  face. 

250 


SEPTEMBER   3. 


My  God  shall  supply  all  our  need. 
riiil.  iv.  19. 

So  Paul  assured  believers  at  Philippi,  and  so  He 
assures  us.  They  had  many  wants,  so  have  we ; 
they  were  dependant  on  God,  and  so  are  we. 
The  Lord  engaged  to  supply  them,  and  He  is 
engaged  to  supply  us.  The  Lord  was  faithful 
to  them,  and  He  will  be  faithful  to  us.  His 
absolute  promises  are  our  invaluable  treasure ; 
His  unchangeability  is  our  immutable  security. 
While  Jehovah  lives  we  cannot  be  friendless, 
we  shall  never  be  left  to  want ;  and  at  last  we 
shall  be  able  to  testify,  "  Not  one  thing  hath 
failed  of  all  that  the  Lord  our  God. hath  prom- 
ised." We  can  this  morning  rejoice,  and  say, 
"  The  Lord  hath  blessed  me  hitherto.  Thou 
hast  dealt  well  with  Thy  servant,  O  Lord,  ac- 
cording to  Thy  word.'"  Our  wants  should  re- 
mind us  of  Grod's  promises  ;  the  promises  should 
be  used  to  quell  our  fears,  and  comfort  our 
hearts.  We  know  not  what  a  day  will  bring 
forth  ;  but  we  know  that  "  our  God  will  supply 
all  our  needs  according  to  His  riches  in  glory  by 
Christ  Jesus."  Let  this  banish  care,  and  let  us 
rejoice  in  the  Lord  as  our  Provider, 

In  Jesus  is  our  store, 

CI  race  issues  from  His  throne  ; 
WhoeTer  says,  "  I  want  no  more," 

Confesses  he  has  none : 
But  they  who  come  to  be  supplied. 
Will  find  Jehovah  doth  provide. 

251 


SEPTEMBER   4. 


Tlu  gospel  of  your  salvation.     Ephes.  L  1 3. 

Our  salvation  is  our  deliverance  from  sin,  the 
curse,  and  the  wrath  of  God  ;  this  was  impos- 
sible to  man,  but  God  sent  His  own  Son  in  our 
nature,  to  save  us  freely,  fully,  and  eternally. 
The  gospel  is  the  "  good  news  of  our  salva- 
tion." It  is  sent  to  inform  us  that  Grod  is  love  ; 
that  grace  reigns  ;  that  heaven  is  opened ;  that 
provision  is  made  for  our  guilt,  weakness,  and 
fears;  that  God  waits  to  receive  us,  bless  us, 
and  glorify  us  with  Himself  forever.  It  sets 
before  us  all  Christ  has  done ;  all  he  possesses  ; 
and  invites  us  to  come  and  receive,  to  use  and 
be  happy.  It  requires  nothing  of  us  to  entitle 
us,  it  presents  all  it  has,  and  gives  it  freely  to 
the  poor,  the  halt,  the  maimed,  and  the  blind. 
It  has  all  our  misery  requires,  all  our  wants 
demand :  we  cannot  wish  for  more  than  it 
brings ;  it  is  full  of  grace  and  full  of  glory. 
Precious  gospel !  Glorious  news  !  May  we  re- 
ceive it,  believe  it,  act  upon  it  daily,  and  so  be 
happy.  It  is  intended  to  fill  us  with  joy  and 
peace  in  believing,  to  lead  us  to  abound  in 
hope ;  and  to  make  us  more  than  conquerors 
over  despondency,  doubt,  and  fear. 

For  you  the  purple  current  flowed, 
In  pardons  from  His  wounded  side ; 
Languished  for  you  the  eternal  God; 
For  you  the  Prince  of  Glory  died : 
Believe,  and  all  your  sin's  forgiven  ; 
Only  believe,  and  yours  is  heaven. 

252 


SEPTEMBER    5. 


I  loill  in  no  wise  cast  out.     John  vi.  37. 

The  strongest  believer  is  subject  to  fears,  and 
may  at  times  be  strongly  tempted  to  doubt,  not 
only  all  that  God  has  done  for  him,  but  His 
right  and  title  to  every  promise  in  God's  Book  ;' 
at  such  times  it  is  well  to  have  recourse  to  those 
wells,  from  which  we  have  drawn  the  choicest 
consolation  in  former  times  ;  and  the  words  of 
Jesus  which  we  have  chosen  for  this  day's  por- 
tion stand  foremost.  Here  He  tells  us,  with 
peculiar  tenderness  and  love,  that  He  has  made 
up  His  mind,  that  He  will  on  no  account  refuse 
to  receive  the  coming  sinner,  or  allow  him  to  be 
driven  from  His  throne ;  neither  the  nature  nor 
number  of  his  transgressions,  his  age  or  cir- 
cumstances, shall  be  found  sufficient  to  procure 
Him  a  rejection.  His  arms  and  His  heart  are 
open,  He  stands  and  calls  us  to  Him,  giving  us 
this  assurance,  "  I  will  in  no  wise  oast  out," 
Nearly  two  thousand  years  have  rolled  away 
since  He  spake  the  words  ;  millions  of  sinners  of 
every  clime  and  character  have  made  application, 
and  all  have  found  Him  faithful.  Let  us  not 
then  grieve  His  love,  and  distress  our  own  souls, 
by  doubts  and  fears,  but  trust  His  word. 

When,  gracious  Lord,  when  shall  it  be, 
That  I  shall  find  my  all  in  Thee  ? 
The  fulness  of  Thy  promise  prove. 
The  seal  of  Thine  eternal  love  ? 
Ah  !  wherefore  did  I  ever  doubt ! 
Thou  wilt  in  no  wise  cast  me  out. 

253 


SEPTEMBER   6. 


I  mil  love  them  freely.     Hosea  xiv.  4. 

The  Lord  loves  his  people  naturally,  as  parents 
love  their  children ;  freely,  without  any  cause 
whatever  in  them.  He  looks  for  nothing  in 
them  to  move  Him  to  love  ;  nor  will  He  allow 
anything  in  them  to  prevent  His  love.  He 
loves  them  as  vessels  of  mercy  ;  disciples  of 
Jesus ;  as  bearing  His  image,  His  name,  and 
His  nature.  His  love  to  them  is  infinite,  fruitful, 
and  unchangeable.  He  will  love  them,  though 
they  deserve  hatred,  merit  wrath,  and  may  be 
justly  sentenced  to  perdition.  Beloved,  let  us 
never  look  into  ourselves  to  find  out  the  cause 
of  God's  love  ;  it  is  in  Him,  not  in  us  ;  but  let 
us  believe  Him  when  He  says,  "  I  have  loved 
thee  with  an  everlasting  love."  Let  us  plead 
with  Him,  encouraged  by  the  words  of  Jesus, 
"  The  Father  Himself  loveth  you."  Let  us  re- 
joice before  Him,  and  praise  Him  for  distinguish- 
ing grace.  If  He  will  love,  who  shall  forbid 
Him  ?  If  He  will  love  us,  who  shall  dispute 
with  Him  ?  If  He  love  us,  as  His  word  testi- 
fies He  does,  who  shall  estimate  the  honor,  the 
advantage,  or  the  happiness,  which  will  eternally 
flow  from  His  love  ?     All  glory  to  free  grace. 

O  Jesus,  full  of  truth  and  grace, 

More  full  of  grace  than  I  of  sin  ; 
Yet  once  again  I  seek  Thy  face  ; 
Open  thine  arms  and  take  me  in : 
And  freely  my  backslidings  heal, 
And  love  the  faithless  sinner  still. 

254 


SEPTEMBER    7. 


Rejoicmg  in  hope.     Rom.  xii.  12. 

The  believer  cannot  always  rejoice  in  possession, 
for  he  appears  stripped  of  everything ;  but  he 
may  rejoice  in  hope  even  then.  He  is  warrant- 
ed to  hope  for  eternal  life  ;  for  rigliteousness  by 
faith  ;  that  God  may  be  magnified  in  his  body, 
by  life  or  by  death  ;  for  the  resurrection  of  the 
body,  and  its  reunion  with  the  soul ;  for  the 
appearing  of  his  beloved  Saviour,  and  complete 
salvation  through  Him.  The  hope  which  is  laid 
up  for  him  in  heaven,  of  which  the  gospel  now 
informs  him — a  weight  of  glory,  a  crown  of 
righteousness,  and  an  eternal  inheritance,  are  in 
reserve  for  him,  and  in  hope  of  these  he  may  re- 
joice. They  are  set  before  him  to  excite  desire, 
produce  courage,  prevent  despondency,  and  fill 
with  joy.  They  are  freely  given,  plainly  prom- 
ised, and  carefully  preserved  ;  therefore  we  shall 
never  be  ashamed  of  our  hope.  Let  us  not  yield 
to  our  gloomy  feelings  or  -to  distressing  forebod- 
ings ;  but  let  us  lift  up  our  heads,  rejoicing  that 
we  shall  so  soon  be  made  partakers  of  our  hope. 
Let  us  hope  in  God,  and  daily  praise  Him  more 
and  more  ;  making  use  of  hope  as  the  anchor  of 
the  soul,  sure  and  steadfast. 

Come,  Lord,  and  help  me  to  rejoice, 
In  hope  that  I  shall  hoar  Thy  voice, 

Shall  one  day  see  my  God ; 
Shall  cease  from  all  my  painful  strife, 
Handle  and  taste  the  word  of  life, 

And  feel  the  sprinkled  blood. 

255 


SEPTEMBER   8. 


The  word  of  our  God  shall  stand  forever. 
Isaiah  xl.  8. 

The  word  of  our  God  is  like  His  nature,  immu- 
tably the  same;  He  saith,  "My  covenant  will 
I  not  break,  nor  alter  the  thing  that  is  gone 
out  of  my  mouth."  Believer,  this  is  thy  com- 
fort ;  every  promise  is  confirmed  and  shall  be 
fulfilled.  But  what  hath  He  said?  He  hath 
said,  "  Though  your  sins  be  as  scarlet  they 
shall  be  white  as  snow.  Many  are  the  afflictions 
of  the  righteous,  but  the  Lord  delivereth  him 
out  of  them  all.  No  weapon  formed  against 
thee  shall  prosper.  I  will  strengthen  thee,  I  will 
help  thee.  I  will  never  leave  thee  nor  forsake 
thee.  No  good  thing  will  He  withhold  from 
them  that  walk  uprightly."  All  that  He  saith 
Cometh  surely  to  pass.  Not  one  jot  or  tittle 
can  fail.  He  never  spake  hastily,  insincerely, 
or  unwisely  ;  He  has  drawn  His  plan,  given 
His  word,  and  everything  shall  answer  the  end 
He  had  in  view.  Man  may  be  disappointed, 
God  cannot.  Man  may  change  his  mind,  or 
break  his  word ;  but  God  cannot.  He  abideth 
faithful.  He  cannot  deny  Himself.  Trust,  and 
be  not  afraid. 

The  word  of  God  shall  still  endiire, 

Faithful,  immutable,  and  sure  : 

This  solid  rock  shall  never  break, 

Though  earth  should  to  her  centre  shake. 
And  while  it  stands  we  should  not  fear, 
For  all  we  need  is  promised  there. 

256 


SEPTEMBER   9. 


Oh,  love  the  Lord,  all  ye  His  saints. 
Psalm  xxxi.  23. 

Our  God  has  revealed  Himself  as  the  source, 
centre,  and  end  of  everything  lovely.  In  Jesus 
He  appears  as  the  fairest  among  ten  thousand, 
and  the  altogether  lovely.  The  wealth  of  the 
universe  is  His.  He  is  worthy  of  our  highest 
love.  He  is  air  we  could  wish  or  desire.  To 
possess  Him  is  to  be  made  for  eternity.  To 
have  Him  on  our  side  is  to  be  safe  forever. 
But  you  may  ask,  What  is  His  mind  towards 
us?  Emphatically,  "grace."  We  have  found 
favor  in  His  eyes.  He  is  the  Friend  of  pen- 
itent sinners.  He  loveth  us  with  an  infinite 
love.  Do  you  doubt  it?  Read  His  word. 
Look  at  Calvary.  Ask  His  people.  Prove  for 
yourselves.  See  what  He  has  already  done 
for  us.  Have  we  a  being?  He  gave  it.  Have 
we  a  good  hope?  He  bestowed  it.  Have  we 
liberty  ?  He  bought  it.  Have  we  holiness  ? 
He  wrought  it.  Consider  what  we  may  have 
been  but  for  His  grace.  What  we  certainly 
should  have  been  but  for  His  salvation.  What 
we  are  now,  and  what  we  shall  be,  as  the  effect 
of  His  love ;  and,  "  Oh,  love  the  Lord,  all  ye 
His  saints  !"  It  is  happiness  !  It  is  holiness ! 
It  is  heaven  ! 


Love  all  defects  supplies, 
Makes  great  obstructions  small ; 
'Tis  prayer ;  'tis  praise  ;  'tis  sacrifice  ; 
'Tis  holiness ;  'tis  all ! 

257 


SEPTEMBER    10. 


To  comfort  all  that  moitrn.    Isaiah  Ixi.  2. 

The  Lord's  people  are  all  mourners ;  grace  sets 
and  keeps  them  mourning  over  sin  committed — 
depravity  discovered — evidences  needed — com- 
forts forfeited  and  lost — apparent  uselessness — 
the  sins  of  others — the  state  of  the  church — or 
for  the  salvation  of  relatives  and  friends.  We 
mourn  after  Jesus  when  we  do  not  enjoy  His 
love,  and  over  Him  as  suffering  when  we  do. 
But  He  has  declared,  "  Blessed  are  they  that 
mourn,  for  they  shall  be  comforted."  Jesus 
Himself  is  anointed  and  appointed  to  be  our 
Comforter  ;  He  has  given  Him  the  tongue  of 
the  learned,  that  He  may  speak  a  word  in  season 
to  them  that  are  weary.  He  comforts  us  by 
pardoning  our  sins — subduing  our  iniquities — 
restoring  the  joys  of  His  salvation — employing 
us  in  His  service,  and  making  us  successful. 
He  comforts  us  by  His  word.  His  servants,  and 
His  Spirit.  Admire  the  wisdom  of  God  in  the 
person  appointed ;  the  love  of  God  in  the  work 
to  which  He  is  appointed;  and  the  faithfulness 
of  God  in  the  perpetuity  of  His  office.  He  ever 
lives,  and  lives  to  comfort  us.  Sweet  view  of 
Jesus,  let  us  dwell  upon  it. 


Now  in  the  Lord  will  I  be  glad, 

And  glory  in  His  love  ; 
In  Ilim  I'll  joy,  who  will  the  God 

Of  my  salvation  prove : 
My  Saviour  will  my  comfort  be, 
And  set  my  soul  from  trouble  free. 
258 


SEPTEMBER    11. 


Wilt  thou  be  made  whole  ?     John  v.  G. 

The  great  Physician  presents  Himself  to  us  this 
morning,  and  He  asks,  "  Wilt  thou  be  made 
WHOLE  ?"  This  is  a  searching  question.  Are 
you  wilUng  to  be  sanctified  throughout  ?  Will- 
ing that  He  should  use  what  means  He  pleases, 
to  conform  you  to  Himself?  Jesus  is  able  to 
sanctify  us  wholly ;  the  time  of  mercy  is  now ; 
are  we  desirous  of  being  healed?  If  so,  let  us 
put  ourselves  into  His  hands  for  the  purpose; 
let  us  submit  without  hesitation  to  His  terms ; 
He  performs  the  cure  and  receives  all  the  glory. 
Let  us  not  fancy  that  our  case  is  hopeless,  but 
let  us  look  to  Jesus,  who  will  heal  us,  and  heal 
us  GRATIS.  Open  thy  whole  case  to  Him,  consult 
Him  daily,  trust  Him  implicitly,  and  expect  to 
shine  before  the  Father's  throne  as  a  proof  of 
His  skill  and  kindness.  No  case  can  be  desperate, 
while  Jesus  lives  to  heal ;  no  sinner  can  be  too 
poor,  for  He  heals  without  money  and  without 
price.  O  Jesus  !  heal  us  thig  morning  !  Soften 
our  hard  hearts.  Regulate  our  disorderly  wills. 
Elevate  our  earthly  affections.  Fill  us  with 
holiness,  fill  us  with  love.  We  lie  at  Thy  feet, 
and  we  trust  in  Thy  word. 


Jesus,  to  Tliee  for  help  I  call, 
With  pitying  eye  behold  me  fall, 

Diseased  at  Thy  throne  ; 
Oh,  heal  my  soul,  remove  my  sin, 
Now  make  the  filthy  leper  clean, 

Remove  the  heart  of  stone. 

259 


SEPTEMBER    12. 


/  lay  down  my  life  for  the  sheep.    John  x.  15. 

Jesus  has  a  flook  peculiarly  His  own  ;  Hi^Father 
chose  them  and  gave  them  to  Him  ;  He  received 
them  and  became  their  Shepherd  ;  they  wander- 
ed and  were  doomed  to  die,  but  He  interfered 
and  died  for  them.  Oh,  what  an  infinite  love 
was  the  love  of  Jesus !  He  left  His  Father's 
bosom,  left  the  songs  of  angels,  left  the  throne  of 
glory  ;  and  became  a  man,  that  He  might  become 
a  Substitute.  He  offered  Himself  for  them. 
His  blood  for  theirs,  His  life  for  theirs.  The 
offer  was  accepted,  and  He  redeemed  them  to 
God  by  His  blood  out  of  every  nation,  country, 
people,  and  tongue.  They  are  doubly  His,  for 
He  bought  them  when  they  had  sold  themselves, 
though  before  they  were  given  Him  by  His 
Father  in  love.  Herein  is  love;  not  that  we 
loved  Jesus,  but  that  He  loved  us;  and  gave 
Himself  to  be  the  propitiation  for  our  sins.  Are 
we  among  His  sheep  ?  Are  we  like  them  ?  Do 
we  love  them,  cleave  to  them,  and  walk  with 
them  ?  His  sheep  are  gentle,  harmless,  peaceful, 
humble,  dependant  upon  Him,  and  devoted  to 
Him.  They  hear  His  voice,  love  His  ways,  and 
follow  Him  whithersoever  He  aroeth. 


When  the  Shepherd's  life  was  needful 

To  redeem  the  sheep  from  death, 
Of  their  safety  ever  heedful, 
Jesus  yielded  up  His  breath; 

Faithful  Shepherd  ! 
Love  like  Thine  no  other  hath. 
260 


SEPTEMBER    13. 


Let  patience  have  her  perfect  work. 
James  i.  4. 

Patien'ce  supposes  trials,  and  troubles  ;  it  sig- 
nifies to  remain  under  a  burden  ;  it  is  opposed 
to  fretfulness,  murmuring,  haste,  and  despon- 
dency. It  produciss  submission,  silence  before 
God,  and  satisfaction  with  His  dealings.  The 
Holy  Spirit  produces  this  grace  by  means  of 
afflictions;  tribulation  worketh  patience.  Every 
Christian  is  supposed  to  possess  it,  and  is  re- 
quired to  exercise  it ;  yea,  to  let  it  have  its 
PERFECT  WORK.  To  this  cud  let  us  study  the 
examples  of  suffering  and  patience  set  before 
us  in  the  Bible ;  let  us  take  up  and  plead  God's 
promises ;  let  us  remember  that  eternal  love 
appointed  every  trial  and  trouble ;  that  Jesus 
forewarned  us  of  tribulation  ;  that  He  has  set 
us  an  example  which  we  are  required  to  imitate. 
Impatience  dishonors  our  profession,  and  grieves 
the  Spirit ;  patience  benefits  others,  and  is  of 
great  advantage  to  ourselves.  Let  us  watch 
against  temptations  to  impatience,  and  in  pa- 
tience possess  our  souls.  So  shall  we  fill  up 
our  character  as  Christians ;  complete  the  evi- 
dence of  our  sincerity  ;  and  prove  our  principles 
divine. 

Dear  Lord,  though  bitter  is  the  cup 

Thy  gracious  hand  deals  out  to  me, 

I  cheerfully  would  drink  it  up ; — 

That  cannot  hurt  Tvhich  comes  from  Thee. 

The  gift  of  patience,  Lord,  impart, 

To  calm  and  soothe  my  troubled  lieart. 

261 


SEPTEMBER    14. 


Aiid  Jacob  said,  I  have  enough:  or,  I  have  all  things. 
Gen.  xxxiii.  10,  11. 

Poor  Jacob  left  his  father's  house  with  only  a 
staff,  but  he  returned  with  two  bands  ;  so  great- 
ly had  the  Lord  prospered  him.  But  it  was  not 
his  earthly  possessions,  but  the  kindness  of  his 
brother,  and  the  grace  of  his  God,  which  led 
him  to  exclaim,  "  I  have  enough  :  or,  I  have 
ALL  THINGS."  Bcloved,  such  language  becomes 
us,  as  the  objects  of  Jehovah's  everlasting  love ; 
as  interested  in  the  well-ordered  covenent ;  as 
entitled  to  all  the  promises  ;  as  invited  to  come 
to  the  throne  of  grace  to  receive  all  we  need ; 
as  directed  to  cast  all  our  cares  upon  God  ;  as 
having  a  warrant  to  expect  every  good  thing  on 
earth,  and  glory  at  the  journey's  end.  Ought 
we  not  to  rejoice  and  shout,  "  I  have  enougil" 
Enough  to  make  me  happy.  Enough  to  make 
me  holy.  Enough  to  fill  me  with  gratitude. 
Enough  to  fill  angels  with  wonder,  and  devils 
with  envy  and  vexation.  O  Jesns  !^  to  what  a 
height  hast  Thou  raised  us !  With  what  great, 
lasting,  and  glorious  blessings  hast  Thou  blessed 
us !  Everlasting  praises  to  Thy  name,  and 
eternal  glory  to  Thy  sovereign  grace  I 

Jesus  is  all  I  wish  or  want ! 
For  Him  I  pray,  I  thirst,  I  pant : 
Let  others  after  earth  aspire : 
Christ  is  the  treasure  I  desire ; 
He  is  an  allsuflicient  store; 
Possess'd  of  Him.  I  wisli  no  more. 


2G>2 


SEPTEMBER    15. 


The  end  of  all  things  is  at  hand.     1  Pet.  iv.  7. 

The  mountains  shall  depart,  and  the  hills  be 
removed  ;  only  Jehovah's  word,  love,  purposes, 
and  perfections  remain  the  same.  The  world 
passeth  away,  and  the  fashion  of  it ;  but  he 
that  doeth  the  will  of  God  abideth  forever. 
The  end  of  all  things  is  at  hand  ;  our  labors 
will  soon  cease ;  our  commerce  terminate  ;  our 
earthly  relationships  dissolve ;  our  pleasures  and 
sorrows  in  this  world  be  concluded  ;  the  last 
sermon  will  soon  be  preached ;  and  the  last  op- 
portunity for  us  to  do  good  will  make  its  appear- 
ance. The  coming  of  the  Son  of  God  draweth 
nigh ;  let  us  be  therefore  preparing  ourselves 
for  so  great,  so  solemn  an  event ;  and  whenever 
tempted  to  trifle,  to  loiter,  or  to  sin,  let  us  re- 
member "  THE  Lord  is  at  hand."  Let  us  be 
sober,  temperate  in  reference  to  the  body  ;  and 
let  us  think  soberly  of  ourselves,  of  others,  of 
everything  around  us.  Let  us  not  be  rash  or 
hasty,  careless  or  indifferent ;  but  let  us  speak 
and  act  soberly,  as  those  that  must  give  an 
account.  He  that  shall  come  will  come,  and 
will  not  tarry ;  and  He  bids  us  be  ready  to  re- 
ceive Him  with  gladness,  joy,  and  rejoicing. 


When  Thou,  my  righteous  Judge  !  shalt  come 
To  fetch  Thy  ransom'd  people  home, 

Shall  I  among  them  stand  ? 
Shall  such  a  worthless  worm  as  I, 
Who  sometimes  am  afraid  to  die. 

Be  found  at  Thy  right  hand  ?• 

263 


SEPTEMBER    16. 


£ven  to  hoar  hair.i  will  I  carry  you. 
Isaiah  xlvi.  4. 

What  a  sweet  portion  is  this  for  the  aged  dis- 
ciples of  the  Lord  Jesus  j  heart  and  flesh  may 
fail  them,  but  God  will  not  forsake  them. 
Having  begun  a  good  work  in  them,  He  will 
carry  it  on.  His  gifts  and  callings  are  without 
repentance.  He  will  be  as  kind,  as  tender,  and 
as  gracious  at  last  as  at  the  first.  He  will 
CARRY  us.  The  eternal  God  is  our  refuge,  un- 
derneath are  the  everlasting  arms.  He  will  carry 
us  safely  through  every  danger,  over  every  diffi- 
culty, into  His  presence  and  glory.  Aged  pil- 
grim, lean  upon  thy  God  ;  look  unto  Him ;  and 
as  the  nurse  carrieth  the  sucking  child,  so  will 
thy  God  carry  thee.  He  will  prove  Himself 
faithful  to  His  word,  and  ultimately  call  you 
forth  as  a  witness  to  the  same.  Fear  not  then 
in  reference  to  the  evening  of  old  age :  thy  God 
will  supply  thee  ;  He  will  support  thee  ;  and  at 
last  land  thee  safe  where  the  storms  of  trouble 
never  blow,  where  weakness  and  fear  are  never 
felt.  Take  no  anxious  thought  for  the  morrow ; 
let  the  morrow  take  thought  for  the  things  of  it- 
self ;  sufficient  unto  the  day  is  the  evil  thereof. 
The  promise  of  thy  God  cannot  fail  thee ;  He 
will  guide  thee  and  carry  thee  to  His  kingdom 
and  glory.     He  says — 

E'en  down  to  old  age,  all  My  people  shall  prove 
My  sov'reign,  eternal,  unchangeable  love ; 
And  when  hoary  hairs  shall  their  temples  adorn, 
Like  lambs  they  shall  still  in  My  bosom  be  borne. 
264 


SEPTEMBER    17. 


Fight  the  good  fight  of  faith.     1  Tim.  vi.  12. 

Faith  has  to  fight  with  ,the  deep  apd  direful 
depravity  of  the  heart ;  with  error  and  super- 
stition;  with  despondency  and  early  prejudices; 
with  unbelief  and  carnal  reason  :  with  Satan 
and  the  world  at  large.  Faith  has  to  fight  for 
victory ;  for  a  crown ;  for  God's  glory.  True, 
faith  fights  in  God's  strength  ;  witl^  certainty, 
arising  from  the  faithful  promise ;  in  holy  fear,, 
produced  by  grace  talcmg  advantage  of  our 
weakness;  with  courage;  principally  roni^thc^ 
knees  ;  and  looking  to  the  great  Captain  of  pur 
salvation,  the  end  of  the  conflict,  and  the  de-i 
sign  of  the  combat.  .  Believer,,  '*  Fight,  the^ 
GOOD  FIGHT  OF  FAITH."  Thy  God '  bicls  thce* 
His  promises  are  intended  to  encourage  thee. 
The  example  of  Jesus  should  ayimate  thee. 
The  coward's  doom  should  alarm  and  instruct 
thee.  The  connection  between  conflict  and 
conquest  should  impel  thee.  Jesus  sa}^s,  "  To 
him  that  overcometh  Will  I  grant  to  sit  with  me 
in  my  throne,  even  as  I  also  overcame,  and  am^ 
set  down  with  my  Father  in  His  throne."  .  God 
is  faithful,  by  Avhom  ye  were  called  unto,^ the 
fellowship  of  His  Son  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

Omnipotent  Lord,  my  Stividur  .ind  lOng,     , 

Thy  succor  afford,  Thy  righteousness  bring; 

On  Thee,  as  my  power,  for  strength  I  rely ; 

All  evil  before  Thy  presence  shall  fly  : 

Thy  love  everlasting  will  never  deniirt, 

Thy  truth  and  Tliy  iiicrcyihallrtile  in  my  heart. 


^4^ 


265- 


.4$ 


SEPTEMBER    18. 


He  forrjetlcth  not  the  cry  of  the  humble. 
Psalm  ix.  12. 

The  humble  grateful  soul,  may  have  anything 
from  the  Lord  ;  so  great  is  His  love  to  them, 
and  delight  in  them.  He  cries  to  the  Lord  to 
be  kept  from  every  false  way ;  from  falling  into 
sin ;  and  that  he  may  be  devoted  entirely  to  the 
Lord's  glory.  He  prays  for  his  enemies,  that 
they  may  be  blessed ;  and  for  his  friends,  that 
they  may  be  rewarded.  His  cry  is  constant ; 
sincere ;  and  hearty.  But  he  is  often  tempted 
to  think  that  because  he  is  so  unworthy,  so 
insignificant,  and  so  vile,  God  will  not  hear 
him,  and  especially  when  answers  are  delayed. 
Bat  the  cry  of  the  humble  cannot  be  forgotten. 
The  Lord  will  not  neglect  or  pass  over  such  an 
one's  prayer  without  notice  ;  He  will  not  despise, 
or  contemn  their  petitions ;  but  He  will  regard, 
attend  to,  and  answer  them.  His  wisdom  will 
shine  forth  in  the  time  when,  and  the  means  by 
which  He  answers  their  prayers  ;  and  He  will 
get  Himself  a  glorious  name  by  their  sanctifica- 
tion,  salvation,  and  glorification.  O  believer, 
never  harbor  the  thought  that  thy  God  will  for- 
get thy  petitions  I 

Friend  of  sinners,  King  of  saints, 
Answer  my  minutest  wants ! 
Let  my  cries  Thy  throne  assail. 
Entering  now  within  the  veil ; 
Free  my  soul  from  guilt  and  shamr, — 
Lord,  I  ask  in  Jesus'  name. 


260 


SEPTEMBER    19. 


Sin  shall  not  have  dominion  over  you. 
Rom.  vi.  14. 

What  a  precious  promise.  How  many  of  the 
Lord's  people  have  been  cheered  and  encour- 
aged by  it.  Sin  lives  in  us,  works  in  ns,  fights 
iu  us,  but  it  shall  not  reign.  It  may  annoy, 
it  shall  not  destroy.  Its  authority  is  destroyed 
by  the  Lord.  Its  power  is  weakened  by  grace. 
It  is  warned  to  quit  its  old  residence,  and  it 
will  soon  be  ejected.  We  are  not  under  the 
condemning  power  of  the  law,  it  is  not  our  rule 
of  justification ;  but  we  are  under  favor ;  God 
dealeth  with  us  as  with  children.  He  pardons, 
pities,  and  delivers  us.  He  will  not  allow  sin 
to  hold  us  in  perpetual  bondage,  or  to  condemn 
us  at  the  last  day  ;  but  He  will  set  us  at  liberty, 
and  justify  us  fully.  The  flesh  will  lust  against 
the  Spirit,  corruption  will  rise  and  fight ;  bat 
we  shall  be  strengthened,  assisted,  and  coun- 
selled until  we  finally  overcome.  Grace  shall 
reign  through  righteousness  unto  eternal  life, 
by  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  The  law  will  be 
honored  in  our  endless  blessedness,  and  Jesus 
will  be  glorified  in  us  throughout  eternity.  By 
grace  we  are  saved. 

On  such  love,  my  soul,  still  ponder, 

Love  so  great,  so  rich,  so  free ! 
Say,  while  lost  in  holy  wonder, 

Wliy,  O  Lord,  such  love  to  me  ? 
Hallelujah ! 

Grace  shall  reign  eternally. 

267 


S'SPTEMBER   20. 


/  have  gone  astray  like  a  lost  shei'p. 
Psalm  cxix.  \^&. 

This  is  the  humble  confession  of  a  man  of  God, 
and  may  not  we  adopt  it  as  our  own  this  morn- 
ing ?  Have  not  we  also  gone  astray  ?  Does  not 
this  display  our  iveakness  ?  How  weak  to  wan- 
der from  so  kind  a  Shepherd,  so  rich  a  pasture, 
so  good  a  fold!  Is  it  not  a  mark  of  inatlention? 
Jesus  hath  warned  and  cautioned  us  against  it  in 
His  word.  Is  it  not  a  proof  of  our  ingratitude  7 
Oh,  how  ungrateful  to  forsake  Him  after  so 
many  favors,  such  rich  blessings,  such  tokens 
of  unmerited  kindness!  Does  it  not  betray  our 
folly? — to  go  from  good  to  bad,  from  safety  to 
danger,  from  plenty  to  want  and  wretchedness. 
Oh,  the  power  of  corruption!  The  deceitfulness 
of  the  human  heart!  Lord,  seek  Thy  servants, 
for  we  do  not  forget  Thy  commandments.  We 
smart  for  our  folly ;  we  grieve  over  our  sin ;  we 
desire  to  return  ;  restore  us  to  Thy  fold,  to  the 
enjoyment  of  Thy  favor;  and  enable  us  to  delight 
ourselves  in  Thy  ways.  Jesus,  Shepherd  of  the 
sheep,  bring  us  back  from  all  our  wanderings, 
and  keep  us  near  Thyself ;  for  why  should  we 
turn  aside  from  Thy  flock  and  fold  ? 

Thou  know'st  the  way  to  bring  me  back, 

My  fallen  spirit  to  restore — 
Oh,  for  Thy  truth  and  mercy's  sake, 

Forgive,  and  bid  me  sin  no  more : 
The  ruins  of  my  soul  repair. 
And  make  my  heart  a  house  of  prayer. 

263 


SEPTEMBER   21. 


2^he  Lord  was  ready  to  save  me. 
Isaiah  xxxviii.  20. 

Tins  is  the  testimony  of  a  good  man  who  had 
been  in  great  danger.  His  heart  was  full  of 
fears,  and  he  gave  up  all  for  lost ;  but  now  he 
is  recovered,  and  stands  forth  to  acknowledo-e 
his  mistake,  and  bear  witness  to  this  pleasin"- 
fact,  that  the  Lord  is  ever  ready  to  save  His 
people  in  every  time  of  trouble.  The  Lord 
hath  saved  us,  and  He  will  save  us  even  to  the 
end.  He  has  power,  and  He  will  exert  it ;  He 
has  authority,  and  He  will  employ  it ;  He  has 
sympathy,  and  He  will  manifest  it.  He  is  a 
Saviour  at  hand  and  not  afar  off.  He  is  ready 
and  willing  to  deliver.  Has  He  not  proved 
Himself  so  in  our  past  experience,  and  ought 
we  not  to  trust  Him  for  the  future?  Let  us 
in  every  danger  cry  unto  God  to  save  us ;  wait 
upon  Him  in  humble  hope  for  the  blessing ; 
banish  carnal  and  unscriptural  fears  far  away ; 
refuse  to  listen  to  Satan,  sense,  or  unbelief; 
persevere  in  seeking  until  we  obtain  and  enjoy 
the  blessing.  The  Lord  is  ready  to  save  us. 
Let  us  believe,  hope^  prove,  and  be  happy.  He 
will  save.  He  will  rest  in  His  love,  and  joy  over 
us  with  singing. 

Salvation  to  God  will  I  publish  abroad, 
Jehovah  hath  sa^d  me  through  Jesus's  blood ; 
The  Lamb  was  once  slain,  but  He  liveth  again, 
And  I  with  my  Jesus  forever  shall  reign : 
Then  filled  with  His  love,  in  the  regions  above, 
I  shall  never,  no  never  from  Jesus  remove. 

269 


SEPTEMBER    2  2. 


Be  ye  imitators  of  God,  as  dear  children. 
Eph.  V.  1. 

The  Lord  proposes  Himself  to  us  as  our  pat- 
tern, and  He  gives  grace  to  every  one  who  de- 
sires it  to  imitate  Him.  He  exhorts  us  as  His 
dear  and  tenderly  beloved  children,  and  in 
mildest  strains  proposeth  Himself  for  our  imita- 
tion. Let  us  imitate  the  Lord  in  the  world, 
dealing  justly,  ever  acting  from  holy  principles, 
and  by  a  righteous  rule;  adhering  strictly  to 
truth,  for  our  God  is  the  God  of  truth  :  choos- 
ing our  company,  being  only  familiar  with  them 
who  are  familiar  with  God ;  and  doing  good  to 
all,  especially  unto  them  who  are  of  the  house- 
hold of  faith  ;  for  He  causeth  His  sun  to  shine  on 
the  evil  and  on  the  good,  and  sendeth  rain  on  the 
just  and  on  the  unjust.  Let  us  imitate  Him  in 
the  church,  cultivating  a  spirit  of  love  to  all  saints, 
notwithstanding  their  infirmities,  exercising  for- 
bearance, and  pity ;  being  slow  to  anger  and 
ready  to  forgive ;  accepting  the  will  for  the  deed, 
and  being  always  ready  to  help  in  trouble  and 
distress.  Let  us  imitate  our  Gfod,  for  He  com- 
mands us  ;  our  relation  to  Him  requires  it ;  and 
our  peace  is  involved  in  it. 


This  will  solve  th'  important  question, 
Whether  thou  art  a  real  Christian, 

Better  than  each  golden  dream  ; 
Better  f.ir  than  lip  expression, 
Towering  notions,  great  profession  ; 

This  will  show  your  love  to  Him. 

270 


SEPTEMBER    2  3. 


Cast  thy  burden  npon  f'le  Lord,  and  He  shall  sustain  thee. 
Ps.  Iv.  22. 

The  Lord's  people  are  often  heavy  laden,  their 
burdens  are  heavy  and  their  grief  great;  but 
the  Lord  kindly  directs  them  to  cast  every  bur- 
den upon  Him,  and  promises  to  sustain  them. 
Guilt  in  the  conscience  and  a  sense  of  sin  in  the 
soul,  often  prove  an  intolerable  burden ;  but 
the  Lord  will  remove  it  by  the  blood  of  His 
Son,  and  the  whisper  of  His  Spirit.  The 
care  of  a  family  sinks  the  spirit,  and  fills  with 
distress  ;  but  Jesus  says,  "  Cast  them  all  on  me." 
Losses,  crosses,  enemies,  temptations,  and  the 
inward  conflict,  often  burden  the  soul ;  but  our 
God  will  sanctify  them  to  us,  sustain  us  through 
them,  and  deliver  us  out  of  them  all.  Our 
God  has  determined  that  we  shall  use  Him, 
feel  our  dependence  upon  Him,  and  glory  only 
in  Him.  Believer,  He  will  sustain  thee  by 
speaking  peace  to  thy  troubled  heart;  by  ena- 
bling you  to  leave  your  intricate  affairs  in  His 
hands;  by  strengthening  you  with  strength  in 
your  soul ;  and  by  enabling  you  to  contrast  the 
present  with  the  future.  Thanks  be  unto  God 
who  giveth  us  the  victory.  O  Jesus,  teach  me 
to  bring  every  burden  to  Thy  feet  and  to  cast 
every  care  upon  Thee  ! 

Thou,  O  Lord,  in  tender  love, 

Wilt  all  my  burdens  bear  ! 
Lift  my  heart  to  things  above, 

And  fix  il  ever  there! 

271 


SEPTEMBER   2  4. 


In  the  moxint  of  the  Lord  it  shall  be  seen,   i,  ..  ,j\ 
Gep.  xxii.  14. 

Jehovau  has  provided  supplies  for  His  people, 
He  arranges  the  bcstowment  of  them,  and  hears 
and  answers  prayer  fof  t,hei;n|.  Hi^- inay  allow 
them  to  come  into  trials,  dangers,  apd  troubles; 
but  "in  the  mount  the  Lord  will  be  seen."  He 
will  show  Himself  jas  rigidly  faithful:, to  Hi§ 
word  J  as  kind  apd  merciful  in  all  His  dealings; 
as  attentive  to  the  wants  and  wishes  of  His  peo- 
ple ;  a^.  ready  to  supply  them,  and  display  His 
love  and  power  in  delivering  them.  In  the  mount, 
of  the  Lord  it  shall  be  seen  that  Satan  is  a  liar; 
that  (^uc  fe^rs  wer^  all  groundless);  that  ui^belief. 
is  a  great  sin ;  that  prayer  shall  surely  be  an-, 
swered ;  that  faith  and  hope  shall  not  be  disap-, 
pq^^^dj  that  Jesus  ^  is,  touched ,  w^th  , the  feeling 
of  our  infirmities;  and  that  none  shall  be  asham-i 
ed  who  trust  in,  wait  for,  and  obey  the  commands, 
of  the  jyEosj;  High  Gpd.  Beloved,  we  have  seen 
the  Lord  in  the  mount  of  trial,  we  have  found  it 
turned  into  the  mount  of  jnercy,  and  we  shall 
see  Hinjjpiithe!  rnovint.Qf  gliory.  .  ;   .,  ,,,   / 

!    >j  •   oliiiJ    c-ii     ^Anfjiiy         oitijilt    c-i)J    i!  .  1} 

.,iii  ilOo:.»TUIrrtlle  ihiunt  tlrt  lidrdis'sfeeftv    '  :r>         ■' 

3«*it>  Oi  And  all  His  saints  shall  surely  find,  j  ^ilJld  Oj 
Though  clouds  and  darkness  intervene,.  ,..,,.  „,,i^..c 
He  still  is  gracious,  still  is  kind.  ^ 

Yes,  in  the  mount,  the  Lord  makes  bare 
His  mighty,  His  delivering'  power; 
Displays  a  Father's  tender  care, 
In  the  most  trying,  darkest  hour. 
I-VUVjU    i;-  ■-<  ,)(  /n  t..>i:. 


2??.- 


SEPTEMBER    2  5. 


'  What  think  ye  of  Christ  /     Matt.  xxii.  42. 

Bklovkd,  let  us  inquire  what  do  we  think  of 
Jesus  this  morning  ?  What  do  we  think  of  His 
divinity,  as  one  with  the  Father  ?  Of  His 
humanity,  as  one  with  us?  Of  His  complex 
person,  as  God  and  man  in  one  Christ  ?  What 
think  we  of  His  one  sacrifioe  for  sin?  What 
think  we  of  His  grace  as  displayed  in  the  whole 
work  of  our  redemption  ?  What  think  we  of 
His  word  as  the  ground  of  our  hope,  the  source 
of  our  comfort,  and  the  rule  of  our  lives  ?  What 
think  we  of  His  kingdom  ?  What  think  we  of 
His  coming  ?  How  do  we  think  of  Jesus  ?  Do 
we  think  of  Him  frequently,  as  of  a  subject  full 
of  pleasure  ?  naturally,  as  we  do  of  refreshing 
food?  pleasantly,  as  of  choice  and  delightful 
music  ?  Or,  only  seldom,  aad  then  with  gloom, 
or  without  love  and  ardent  desire  ?  What  does 
our  thinking  of  Christ  produce?  Does  it  pro- 
duce desire— contrition — love — trust— resolution 
— prayer — action?  What  are  we  willing  to 
sutler  for  Christ  ?  What  are  we  willing  to  part 
with  for  Christ  ?  Wliat  can  we  cheerfully  give 
to  Christ,  to  fieed.  His  poor,  or  to  help  His  cause  ?' 


Oh  !  could  I  speak  the  matchless  worth, — 
Oh !  could  I  sound  the  glories  forth,  ci 

Which  iu  my  Saviour  .shine;  !.  i ; 
I'd  soar  and  touch  the  heavenly  .strings, 
And  vie  with  Gabriel  while  he  sings, 

In  notes  almost  divine. 


273 


SEPTEMBER   26. 


Partakers  of  the  heavenly  calling.     Heb.  iii.  1. 

Beloved,  God  hath  called  us  by  His  grace  and 
gospel,  into  the  knowledge  of  Christ ;  into  the 
favor  of  Jesus;  to  partake  of  the  Spirit  of  His 
Son ;  to  enjoy  fellowship  with.  Christ ;  to  wear 
the  image  of  Christ ;  and  to  possess  and  enjoy 
His  righteousness,  strength,  wisdom,  unsearch- 
able riches,  and  eternal  glory.  This  calling  is 
heavenly  in  its  origin,  nature,  tendency,  and 
consummation ;  it  is  from  heaven  and  to  heaven. 
All  believers  partake  of  the  same  calling;  they 
are  called  by  the  same  voice;  to  the  same  cross 
and  throne  ;  to  possess  and  enjoy  the  same  title 
and  to  claim  and  use  the  same  blessings.  This 
calling  is  the  greatest  honor  that  can  be  con- 
ferred upon  a  sinner ;  it  is  altogether  a  favor, 
the  fruit  of  free  and  everlasting  love  ;  its  enjoy- 
ment calls  for  gratitude  and  praise.  Arc  we 
called  with  an  heavenly  calling?  Then  we 
should  come  out  from  the  world ;  walk  with 
God ;  imitate  the  Saviour ;  set  our  affections 
upon  things  above,  and  prepare  for,  and  hasten 
to,  our  blessed  home,  our  glorious  inheritance. 
Let  us  make  our  calling  and  our  election  sure, 
and  then  sing — 


A3  Thou  wilt,  dispose  of  me, 
Only  make  me  one  ■with  Thee ; 
Make  me  in  my  life  express 
All  the  lieights  of  holiness ; 
Sweetly  in  my  spirit  prove 
All  the  depths  of  humble  love ! 

274 


SEPTEMBER    2  7. 


Is  the  Sj)iri(  of  the  Lord  straitened? 
Micah  ii.  7. 

Why  then  do  you  despond  ?  Why  are  you 
satisfied  to  live  so  far  below  your  privileges  ? 
The  Holy  Spirit  is  promised,  to  teach  us  all 
things :  to  testify  of  Jesus  to  our  hearts ;  to 
glorify  our  precious  Saviour  in  our  souls ;  to 
help  our  infirmities,  to  comfort  us  by  taking  of 
the  things  of  Christ,  and  showing  them  to  us  ; 
and  to  lead  us  in  the  way  everlasting.  Do  we 
experience  His  love  in  these  particulars?  If 
not — what  is  the  cause  ?  "Is  the  Spirit  of  the 
Lord  straitened  ?"  NO.  But  do  we  sow  to  the 
Spirit  ?  Do  we  pray  for  the  Spirit  ?  Do  we 
expect  the  Father  to  give  Him,  in  answer  to 
our  prayers ;  that  Jesus  will  send  Him  accord- 
ing to  His  promise  ?  Oh,  beloved,  look  at  your 
doubts,  your  fears,  your  carnality,  your  coldness, 
your  want  of  life,  love,  and  power ;  and  now 
ask — "Are  these  His  doings?"  Is  His  arm 
shortened  ?  Is  His  love  changed  ?  Is  His  word 
false  ?  Or,  rather  have  you  not  grieved  Him, 
quenched  His  operations,  and  caused  Him  to 
withhold  His  hand  ?  Oh,  pray  for  the  Spirit ! 
You  are  absolutely  dependant  upon  Him,  for 
without  Him  you  can  do  nothing. 

Come,  Holy  Ghost,  uU-quickening  fire, 
My  consecrated  heart  inspire. 

Sprinkle  with  the  atoning  blood  : 
Still  to  my  soul  Thyself  reveal ; 
Thy  mighty  working  may  I  feel. 

And  know  that  I  am  one  with  God. 

275 


SErTEMBERj2f.. 


Be  content  with  such  things  a?  yc  have. 
■ '    "     '  '    Hcb.  xiii.  5. 

;  We  may  not  have  what  we  wii^h,  but  we  cer- 

'  tainly  have  what  oui:  God   thinks  best  for  us. 

■  Every  mercy  is  directed  by  infinite  wisdom  and 

■  eternal  love,  and  never  misses  its  road,  or  comes 
;  into  the  possession  of  any  but  the  persons  for 

j  whom  it  is  intended.     Let  us  therefore  remem-. 
I  her,  that  our  God  has  chosen, our  inheritance  for 
\  us,  and  it  becomes  us  to  be  content;  yea,  to  be 
I  visry  grateful.     We  have   infinitely  more   than 
I  we  deserve;  we  have  more  than  mauy  of  our 
I  follow-believers.      We,  have   liberty,    while   the, 
i  Apostles  were  shut  up  in  prison  ;   we  have  a . 
!  home,  while  many  of  the  primitive   Christians 

wandered  abput  in  dens  and  caves  of  the  earth  ; 

our  lives  are  protected,  while  the  martyrs  were 

burned  at  the  stake  ;  we  live  in  hope  of  heaven,, 
•  while  many  are  lifting  up  their  eyes  in  hell,  be-  . 

ing  in  torments.      Let  us  strive  to  be  content . 

w;ith  present  things,  and  hope  for  better  ;  let  us 
t  endeavCr'to  learn  Paulas  lesson,  "I  have  learn-. 
I  ed,  in  whatsoever  state  I  am,  therewith  to  be  . 
I  coilteH^'."  I  know  both  how  to  be  abased,  and  I' 
t  know  how  to  abound.  ,     Arid  say — r     ,•     .^^    .,^.v 

Take  my  soul  and  body's  powers, 
!  I'iike  my  iiieruorv,  miirJ,  and  will,  - ,  . , 

I  All  my  goods,  and  all  my  hours, 

j  All  I  know,  and  ail  I  feci : 

1  Thine  I  live,  thrice  Iwppy  I !       .,  ,,  ^., 

f  Happier  s^ill  if  Thme.  I  die.    ,  ,        j.ii 


2(6 


SEPTEMBER   29. 


2'rust  ye  in  the  Lord  forever.     Isa.  xxvi.  2. 

We  .are  often  discouraged  by  the  difficulties  of  , 
the  yay,  and  cast  down  through  the  weakness 
of  our  faith  ;  we  look  to  creatures,  instead  of 
looking  to  the  Lord  ;  and  reflect  upon  our  weak- 
ness, instead  of  believing  His  promises,  and  trust- , 
ing  His  faithfulness.      But  the   Lord   our   G-od 
should  be  the  only  and  the  constant  object  of  our 
trust ;  His  word  warrants  us  to  look  to  Him  for 
all  we  need,   both  temporal  and  spiritual;  and 
His  character  assures  us  that  we  cannot  be  dis- 
appointed.    He  will  appear  for  us,  and  make  all 
His  goodness   pass   before    us.     If   we   connect 
prayer  to  Grod  with  trusting  in  God,  and  waiting 
for  God,  it  is  impossible  that  we  should  be  left  in 
trouble,  or  be  neglected  in  distress.      We  may 
trust  Him  with  the  fullest  confidence,  and  ex- 
pect without  doubting  all  He  has  promised  to 
bestow.     Are  you  at  this  time  tried,   tempted, 
and  distressed?      Cast   your  burden  upon   the 
Lord.     Commit  your  way  unto  Him  ;  He  will 
bring  tp  pass  His  largest  promises  and  your  best 
desires.     Seek  out  His  promises,  confide  in  them, 
and  plead  them  with  God,  and  expect  their  ac- 
complishment.    Oh,  trust  in  the  Lord  forever ' 

ij.-il'-.   .-( »y 

Trust  Him,  He's  faithful  to  His  word, 

His  promise  cannot  fail ; 
He'll  never  leave  you  nor  forsake. 

Or  let  your  foes  prevail : 
Then  trust  His  word,  expect  His  grace,. 
Until  you  see  Him  face  to  face. 

2Y7 


SEPTEMBER    3  0. 


Ye  arc  binder  grace.     Rom.  vi.  14. 

Believers  are  delivered  from  the  law,  and  are 
dead  to  it ;  they  are  married  to  Christ  and  are 
alive  unto  God  as  a  God  of  love.  The  curse 
is  removed,  sin  is  atoned  for,  and  we  stand  as 
high  in  the  favor  of  God  as  we  possibly  can. 
We  should  look  upon  ourselves  as  the  favorites 
of  God  ;  His  beloved  children,  whom  He  hath 
reconciled  to  Himself  by  the  death  of  His  Son. 
Grace  reigns  over  us,  rules  in  us,  provides  for 
us,  and  will  glorify  us.  Why  then  should  we 
fear  ?  Of  whom  should  we  be  afraid  ?  Sin  is 
pardoned.  The  law  is  magnified.  Justice  is 
satisfied.  God  is  at  peace  with  us  ;  yea,  He 
delights  in  us.  The  world  is  overcome  for  us, 
and  even  Satan  shall  be  bruised  under  our  feet 
shortly.  What  shall  we  say  to  these  things  ? 
As  God  is  for  us,  and  with  us,  who  shall  injure, 
or  prevail  against  us  ?  All  things  must  work  to- 
gether for  our  good  ;  nothing  shall  be  able  to  sep- 
arate us  from  the  love  of  God  ;  we  shall  be  more 
than  conquerors  through  Him  who  loved  us  ; 
and   why  ?     Because    we    are    not  under   the 

LAW,    BUT    UNDER    GRACE.         BcCaUSC     JcSUS    livCS, 

we  shall  live  also. 


On  Jesus  only  I  depend, 

He  is  my  Father,  God,  and  Friend, 

My  Prophet,  King,  and  Priest ; 
Had  I  an  angel's  holiness, 
I'd  ca.st  aside  tliat  glorious  dress, 

And  wrap  me  up  in  Christ. 

278 


OCTOBER    1. 


Your  heavenly  Father.     Matt.  vi.  32. 

When  ye  pray,  say,  "  Our  Father."  "When 
ye  are  cast  down,  remember  you  have  a  Father 
in  heaven  who  loves  you,  cares  for  you,  has 
given  His  word  to  you,  and  is  ever  ready  to  do 
you  good.  It  is  truly  blessed  to  begin  this 
month,  and  every  month,  believing  that  we 
have  a  Father  in  heaven  ;  and  that,  "  like  as  a 
father  pitieth  his  children,  so  the  Lord  pitieth 
them  that  fear  Him  ;  for  He  knoweth  our  frame. 
He  remembereth  that  we  arc  dust."  Let  there 
be  no  reserve  between  us  and  our  heavenly 
Father,  but  let  us  communicate  everything  to 
Him ;  let  there  be  no  hard  thoughts  of  our 
Father  encouraged  ;  but  let  us  take  His  own 
word,  which  sets  forth  His  own  immutable 
mind,  and  rejoice.  Our  heavenly  Father  know- 
eth what  we  need.  He  hath  provided  all  we 
need,  He  will  give  all  He  has  provided ;  but 
He  will  be  acknowledged  and  sought  unto. 
Nothing  is  too  hard  for  Him  to  effect,  nothing 
is  too  great  for  him  to  produce,  nothing  is  too 
good  for  Him  to  bestow  upon  His  people.  What 
a  mercy  to  have  a  Father,  and  such  a  Father, 
in  this  inhospitable  world  I  To  Him  let  us  car- 
ry, and  with  Him  let  us  leave  all  our  cares. 

Father,  on  me  the  grace  bestow, 
To  call  Thee  mine  while  licre  below, 
To  love  Thee  as  Thy  law  requires  ; 
To  this  my  longing  soul  aspires ; 
May  every  word  and  action  prove, 
My  soul  is  filled  with  heavenly  love. 

27) 


OCTOBER    2. 


Who  is  on  the  Lord's  side?     Exo.  xxxii.  26. 

Every  believer  is  ready  to  answer,  I  am.  Well, 
the  Lord  has  a  cause  upon  the  earth  ;  it  is  weak, 
and  wants  your  support ;  it  is  opposed,  and 
needs  your  countenance.  If  you  are  on.  the 
Lord's  side,  you  are  on  the  side  of  truth — holi- 
ness— charity — of  His  worship  and  ordinances — 
of  His  people  and  His  ways — and  you  are  jeaknjs 
of  His  honor.  You  unite  with  His  people,  go 
forth  to  Jesus  without  the  camp,  bearing  His  re- 
proach. If  you  are  on  the  Lord's  side.  He  will 
spare  you  as  obedient  children,  supply  you  as 
faithful  servants  ;  protect  you  as  loyal  subjects; 
and  honor  you  as  brave  and  courageous  sol- 
diers. You  will  never  see  any  just  occasion  to 
change  sides;,  or  regret  that  you  decided  to  serve 
so  good  a  Master.  You  will  find  the  Lord  to  be 
on  your  side,  supporting  you  in  affliction  ;  com. 
forting  you  in  trouble;  giving  you  victory  in 
death  ;  and  pronouncing  you  just  in  the  judg- 
ment. If  you  are  on,  the  Lord's  side,  avow  it 
openly  ;  prove  it  daily  ;  and  let  your  whole  con- 
duct say,  "I  AM  THE  Lord's."  Use*  all  your 
influence  for  His  glory,  consecrate  all  your 
energies  to  His  cause,  and  rejoice  to  suffer.. fof:, 
His  name.  'en    ■, 

Shall  I  for  fear  of  feeble  ui;in, 
The  Spirit's  course  in  me  restrain  ? 
Awed  by  a  mortal's  frown  ••'hall  I 
Conceal  the  word  of  God  most  high  i 
How  then  before  thee  shall  I  dare 
To  stand,  or  how  thine  anger  bear  ? 
280 


OCTOBER   3. 


TJuiu  shftlt  be  a  blessing.    Gen.  xii.  2. 

We  were  by  nature  cursed  of  God,  and  a  curse 
to  others ;  but  a  God  of  love  interferes  for  us, 
pours  His  blessing  upon  us,  and  makes  us  a 
blessing.  He  gives  grace  to  form  the  character ; 
gift3,:to  fit  for  usefulness;  wisdom  to  choose 
the  course ;  strength  to  do  His  will ;  supplies 
to  complete  the  design ;  faith  to  trust  His  word ; 
patience  to  persevere  and  wait  His  time ;  and 
success  to  crown  our  efforts.  The  result  of  His 
thus  blessing  us  is,  we  are  a  blessing  to  others  ; 
to  sinners  and  to  saints.  We  are  a  blessing  by 
the  spirit  we  breathe,  if  it  is  meek,  gentle,  and 
lovely  ;  by  the  example  we  set,  if  it  is  an  imita- 
tion of  Jesus  ;  by  our  prayers  for  the  good  of 
souls,  and  the  glory  of  God ;  and  by  our  efforts 
to  spread  abroad  the  knowledge  of  the  truth  in 
every  place.  What  a  blessing  to  be  the  means 
of  the  conversion  of  but  one  soul !  To  be  used 
to  instruct  the  ignorant,  to  strengthen  the  weak, 
or  to  comfort  the  desponding,  or  distressed.  O 
Jesus  I  make  us  a  blessing.  Thy  grace  is  suf- 
ficient ;  fulfil  to  us  Thy  promise  to  Abraham. 
Beloved,  let  us  look  to  Him,  depend  upon  Him, 
act  for  Him,  give  praise  daily  unto  Hira,  and  we 

SHALL  BE  A  BLESSING. 

Lord,  make  me  faithful  unto  death, 
Thy  witness  -with  my  latest  breath. 
To  tell  the  glories  of  the  Lamb, 
Him  ■whom  I  serve,  and  whose  I  am  ; 
On  whom  for  strength  I  daily  lean. 
Whose  strength  is  in  my  weakness  seen. 

281  : 


OCTOBER    4. 


/  will  do  you  no  hurt.    Jer.  xxv.  6. 

How  is  it  possible  that  a  God  of  love,  who  is 
full  of  compassion,  plenteous  in  mercy,  ready 
to  forgive,  waiting  to  be  gracious,  should  do  His 
children  hurt  ?  It  cannot  be.  His  dealings  may 
cause  us  pain,  but  nothing  shall  by  any  means 
harm  us.  We  ought  rather  to  argue  with  Paul, 
"  He  that  spared  not  His  own  Son,  but  delivered 
Him  up  for  us  all,  how  shall  He  not  with  Him 
also  freely  give  us  all  things  ?"  He  sent  His 
ancient  people  as  captives  to  Babylon,  but  it 
was  for  their  good ;  He  allowed  His  children  to 
be  cast  into  the  fiery  furnace,  into  the  lion's 
den,  to  be  driven  out  to  wander  in  sheep-skins 
and  goat-skins,  but  He  did  not  allow  them  to 
be  hurt ;  all  was  sanctified  to  them,  and  the 
curse  was  turned  into  a  blessing.  If  He  scourge 
us  with  one  hand,  He  will  support  us  with  the 
other ;  and  at  last  we  shall  come  up  before  His 
throne,  out  of  great  tribulation,  having  washed 
our  robes  and  made  them  white  in  the  blood  of 
the  Lamb.  Not  one  who  has  arrived  safe  in 
heaven  will  say  that  his  God  allowed  him  to  be 
hurt;  notwithstanding  the  trials  endured  by  the 
way.     Nothing  shall  by  any  means  hurt  you. 

Lord,  I  would  my  all  resign, 
Gladly  lose  my  will  in  Thine, 
Careless  be  of  things  below, 
Thee  alone  content  to  know  ; 
Simple,  innocent,  and  free, 
Seeking  all  my  bliss  in  Thee. 

282 


OCTOBER    5. 


Only  acknowledge  thine  iniquity.     Jer.  iii.  13. 

Will  the  Lord  receive  us  when  we  have  back- 
slidden from  Him,  and  are  desirous  of  returning 
to  Him  ?  Oh,  yes,  He  invites.  He  exhotts,  He 
beseeches  us  to  return.  Nor  does  He  prescribe 
any  hard  conditions,  but  He  says,  "Only  ac- 
knowledge THINE  INIQUITY."  He  is  SO  ready 
to  forgive,  so  infinitely  gracious  in  His  nature, 
that  if  we  confess  our  sins,  He  is  faithful  and 
just  to  forgive  us  our  sins,  and  to  cleanse  us 
from  all  unrighteousness.  Have  we  wandered  ? 
Have  we  left  our  first  love  ?  Let  us  go  and  re- 
turn to  our  first  husband,  for  then  it  was  better 
with  us  than  now.  His  bowels  yearn  over  us, 
His  arms  are  open  to  receive  us,  and  He  waits 
to  fall  upon  our  neck  and  kiss  us.  Let  us  go  to 
His  throne,  and  there  confess  our  sins,  crave  His 
pardon,  sigh  for  the  enjoyment  of  His  love,  and 
He  will  restore  unto  us  the  joys  of  His  salvation, 
and  establish  us  with  His  free  Spirit.  Let  us 
daily  confess  our  iniquities  unto  the  Lord,  and 
He  will  pardon  our  numerous  sins.  In  His  fa- 
vor is  life.  In  His  frown  is  distress  and  woe. 
He  delighteth  in  mercy.  He  will  receive,  par- 
don us,  and  bless  like  a  God.  His  mercy  en- 
dureth  forever. 

This  glorious  news  dispels  my  fears, 
Makes  glad  my  heart,  wipes  off  my  tears 
Displays  the  riches  of  His  grace, 
Inflames  my  love,  and  claims  my  praise  : 
A  p.irdon'd  sinner  lives  to  prove 
The  height  and  depth  of  Jesus'  love. 


OCTOBER   6. 


jffye  ^rightfousness  which  is  of  God  by  faith. 
PhiL  iii.  9. 

TiiK  rignteonsness  here  intended  is  that  which 
God  requires  in  His  law ;  provided  by  the  life 
and  death  of  His  Son ;  presents  to  sinners  in 
the  everlasting  gospel ;  imputes  to  every  be- 
liever, of  richest  grace;  accepts  when  pleaded 
at  the  throne  of  His  grace ;  and.  honors  with  a 
title  to  eternal  life.  This  righteousness  is  by 
faith;  it  is  the  office  of  faith  to  receive  it; 
plead  it;  trust  it;  rejoice  in  it;  embolden  the 
soul  through  it;  and  clothe  the  soul  in  it.  It 
is  not  offered  to  anything  but  faith,  nor  can  it 
be  received  and  enjoyed  in  any  other  way. 
Every  unbeliever  and  self-righteous  person  re- 
jects it,  but  every  man  who  is  taught  of  God 
feels  that  he  needs  it ;  discovers'  the  beauty, 
glory,  and  value  of  it ;  applies  for  it  with  ardent 
desire  and  earnest  longing  ;  embraces  it  as  one 
of  God's  greatest  favors ;  enjoys  it  ais  a  rich  and 
durable  treasure;  arid  dies  confidehtly  expect- 
ing to  be  accepted  in  it  and  admitted  to  glory 
through  it.  Oh,  may  we  be  found  in  Jesus,  not 
having  on  our  own  righteousness,  which  is  of  the 

law,  but  THE    RIGHTEOUSNESS   AVUICH  IS  OF   GoD  BY 

faith!  And  "Niv^hile  we  pant  for  holiness  wiih 
every  breath,  and  aim  at  it  in  every  action,  may 
each  of  us  devoutly  say — 

And  even  when  I  feel  Thy  grace, 

And  sin  seems  most  subdued, 
I'll  wrap  me  in  thy  righteousness, 

And  plunge  me  in  Thy  blood. 
284 


OCTOBER    7. 


He  that  loveth  me  shall  be  loved  of  my  Father. 
John  xiv.  21. 

Do  we  love  Jesus  ?  Are  we  cultivating  an  ac- 
quaintance with  Hitn?  If  we  love  Him,  we 
desire  to  know  Him  more  fully ;  to  serve  Hirn 
more  cheerfully ;  and  to  enjoy  Him  continually. 
If  we  love  Jesus  we  are  willing  to  part  with  all 
things  for  Him,  to  renounce  whatever  He  for- 
bids, and  pursue  whatsoever  he  commands.  If 
we  love  Him,  we  want  to  love  Him  more  ;  and 
to  be  always  with  Him.  If  we  love  Him,  He 
assures  us  His  Father  will  love  us;  for  He  so 
delights  in  His  beloved  Son,  that  He  visits,  re- 
vives, and  blesses  every  soul  that  loves  Jesus.  If 
God  loves  us,  what  good  thing  will  He  withhold 
from  us  ?  Will  He  suffer  any  one  to  hurt  us  ? 
Oh,  no  !  He  will  manifest  Himself  to  us.  He 
will  appear  for  us.  He  will  glorify  Himself  in 
us.  He  will  be  to  us  all  a  God  can  be,  and  do 
for  us  far  above  our  expectations  and  hopes.  To 
be  the  object  of  the  love  of  God  is  to  enjoy  the 
highest  honor,  and  \o  possess  a  title  to  the  great- 
est happiness  which  it  is  possible  for  rational 
creatures  to  enjoy.  Let  us  therefore  ascertain 
beyond  a  doubt,  that  we  love  Jesus,  ardently, 
sincerelv. 


To  His  meritorious  passion 
All  our  happiness  we  owe ; 

Pardon,  uttermost  salvation, 

Heaven  above  and  heaven  below : 

Grace  and  glory 
From  tliat  open  fountain  flow. 


OCTOBER    §. 


We  will  remember  thy  love.     Sol.  Song  i.  4. 

What  subject  is  so  sweet  as  the  love  of  Jesus  ? 
The  good-will  of  His  heart  towards  us,  which 
He  fixed  on  us  sovereignly,  immutably,  and 
eternally.  Let  us  remember  this  love  of  Jesus, 
for  it  is  sufficient  to  fill  us  with  joy,  peace,  and 
love.  Oh,  how  it  condescended  to  look  U}Don  us, 
come  and  die  for  us,  and  now  to  dwell  with  us  ! 
What  benevolence  it  has  and  does  display,  giv- 
ing everything  that  is  necessary  for  life  and  god- 
liness. How  it  dignifies  its  objects,  raising  them 
to  glory,  honor,  immortality,  and  eternal  life. 
Let  us  remember  His  love ;  to  comfort  our 
hearts  amidst  changing  friendships;  to  encourage 
our  souls  in  seasons  of  darkness  ;  to  produce  con- 
fidence in  times  of  trial ;  to  inspire  with  forti- 
tude in  times  of  danger  ;  to  beget  patience  when 
burdened  and  o]ipressed ;  to  reconcile  the  mind 
under  bereaving  dispensations ;  and  to  produce 
zeal  and  devotedness  in  the  Lord's  cause  and 
service.  Oh,  love  of  Jesus !  be  Thou  my  daily 
subject  and  constant  theme  f  Beloved,  let  us 
remember  His  love,  if  we  forget  everything  be- 
side ;  there  is  nothing  so  sweet,  so  valuable,  so 
excellent  as  this  ! 

God  only  knows  the  love  of  God : 
Oh,  that  it  now  were  slied  abroad 

In  this  poor  stony  heart ! 
Give  me  to  know  this  love  divine, 
This  lieavenly  portion,  Lord,  he  mine; 

Be  mine  this  bettor  part ! 

286 


OCTOBER    9. 


The  poor  commUtcth  himself  to  Thee.     Psalm  x.  14. 

Those  who  appear  the  most  friendless,  have  the 
best  and  truest  Friend.  The  Lord's  people  are 
poor,  but  they  are  not  friendless  nor  forsaken. 
They  have  Jehovah  for  their  God,  Jesus  for  their 
Saviour,  and  the  Holy  Spirit  for  their  Comforter 
and  Guide.  They  know  God  and  commit  them- 
selves and  their  all  to  Him.  But  how  do  they 
commit*  themselves  to  Him  ?  As  the  debtor 
does  to  His  Surety.  As  a  sick  man  does  to  his 
Physician.  As  the  client  does  to  his  Lawyer  or 
Advocate.  As  the  needy  does  to  his  rich  and 
generous  Friend.  As  a  sinner  to  the  Saviour. 
As  the  loving  bride  does  to  her  beloved  bride- 
groom. But  wliy  do  they  commit  themselves 
unto  Him  ?  They  commit  themselves  to  His 
grace  to  be  saved  by  it ;  to  His  power  to  be  kept 
by  it ;  to  His  providence  to  be  fed  by  it ;  to  His 
word  to  be  ruled  by  it ;  to  His  care  to  be  pre- 
served by  it ;  and  to  His  arms  at  death  to  be 
safely  landed  in  glory.  This  flows  from  grace, 
and  produces  peace,  safety,  satisfaction,  and  suc- 
cess. Let  us,  beloved,  commit  ourselves  to  the 
Lord  daily,  heartily,  deliberately,  and  unreserv- 
edly. 

My  soul  shall  cry  to  Thee,  O  Lord, 
To  Thee,  supreme,  incarnate  "Word, 
My  rock  and  fortress,  shield  and  Friend, 
Creator,  Saviour,  source,  and  end  ; 
And  thou  wilt  hear  Thy  servant's  pr.ayer, 
Though  death  and  darkness  speak  despair. 

287 


OCTOBER    10. 


Who  sliail  lay  anylhing  to  the  charge  of  God's  elect  ? 
Rpna.  viii.  33- 

God's  elect  are '  sinners  ;  they  know  it,  feel  it, 
and  deplore  it.  The  world  is  against  thfem,  and 
Satan  tries  every  means  in  his  power  to  rain 
them.  But  blessed  be  God' lie  cannot  prevail. 
The  work  of  the  Holy  Spirit  within  them,  sets 
and  keeps  them  panting  for  holiness  ;  striving 
against  sin;  aiming  at  God's  glory;  and  desiring 
to  be  a  blessing  to  all  around  them.  The  work 
of  Christ  for  them,  brings  forth  a  sentence  of 
justification  from  the  eternal  Father  ;  and  be- 
lieving His  word  they  realize  their  privilege,  and 
may  boldly    ask — "  Who    shall    lay    anything 

TO  THE  CHARGE  op  God's    ElECT  ?"       Will    God? 

No^ — for  He  is  perfectly  satisfied  through  the 
death  of  His  Son.  Will  conscience  ?  No — for 
it  is  cleansed  by  the  blood  of  Jesus,  sUenced'  by 
the  word  of  God,  and  corroborates  Jehovah's 
testimony.  Can  Satan  ?  No — for  he  is  cast 
out;' bis  testimony  cannot  be  received,  having 
long  since  been  proved  a  liar  by  the  God  of 
truth.  Will  Jesus  as  Judge  of  all?  No — ^^for 
He' would  rather  die  for  us  than  condemn'  lis. 
O  beloved,  see  the  perfection  of  the  Saviour's 
work. 

Complete  atonement  He  has  made, 
And  to  the  utmost  farthing  paid 

Whato'er  Hia  people  owed  ; 
How  tlien  can  wrath  on  me  take  place, 
If  shelter'd  in  His  righteousness. 

And  sprinkled  with  His  blood  ? 

288 


OCTOBER    11. 


Keep  yourselves  in  the  love  of  God.    Jude  21. 

The  love  of  God  to  His  people  is  free,  unspeak- 
ably great,  and  eternal ;  our  love  to  God  is  de- 
pendant on  His  love  to  us  as  its  source,  on  faith 
and  fellowship  with  Him  as  its  fuel ;  therefore 
we  are  exhorted  to  keep  ourselves  in  the  love  of 
God.  This  implies  that  we  are  beloved  of  God, 
and  that  we  know  it,  and  love  Him  in  return. 
That  we  should  endeavor  to  retain  our  stand- 
ing, and  keep  ourselves  sensibly  in  the  love  of 
God,  by  setting  it  always  before  our  minds ; 
exercising  our  faith  on  it ;  and  seeking  the  en- 
joyment of  it  by  prayer  and  in  the  Lord's  ways. 
We  should  keep  ourselves  in  the  exercise  of  love 
to  God  by  avoiding  temptations,  walking  by 
faith,  and  living  as  in  His  presence.  We  should 
keep  ourselves  in  the  exercise  of  love  one  to 
another,  by  exhortation,  forbearance,  and  ex- 
ample. We  should  preserve  ourselv^es  by  the 
love  of  God,  from  the  temptations  of  Satan,  the 
snares  of  the  world,  and  the  lusts  of  the  flesh. 
Beloved,  consider  how  the  love  of  God  aggravates 
our  sins ;  how  it  should  fire  us  with  courage  to 
oppose  everything  that  is  unholy  or  forbidden. 


O  love  divine,  how  sweet  thou  art ! 
When  shall  I  find  my  longing  heart 

All  taken  up  by  Thee  I 
Grant  me,  O  gracious  Lord,  to  prove 
The  sweetness  of  redeeming  love, 

The  love  of  Christ  to  me  ! 


289 


13 


OCTOBER    12. 


Be  sure  your  sin  loill  find  you  out. 
Num.  xxxii.  23. 

Sin  cannot  be  concealed  ;  it  meets  the  eye  and 
affects  the  heart  of  God ;  and  unless  we  find  it 
out,  confess  it  with  sorrow,  and  forsake  it  with 
disgust,  it  will  find  us  out,  and  expose  us  to 
the  rod  of  God,  and  the  contempt  of  godly  men. 
It  found  Achan  out,  and  proved  his  ruin  ;  it 
found  Noah  out,  and  covered  him  with  disgrace ; 
and  it  found  David  out,  so  that  the  sword  never 
departed  from  his  house,  God  cannot  be  rec- 
onciled to  sin,  nor  should  we  be.  However 
secret  the  sin,  God  is  a  witness;  and  He  will 
bring  it  to  light.  "  He  that  covereth  his 
SIN  SHALL  NOT  PROSPER  ;  but  he  that  confesseth 
and  forsaketh  his  sins,  shall  find  mercy."  Let 
us  be  careful  that  we  give  sin  no  quarter,  or 
vainly  fancy  that  because  God  loves  us  He  will 
not  expose  us ;  He  assures  us  our  sin  will  find 
us  OUT.  Oh,  to  hate  sin  as  God  hates  it,  to 
loathe  it  as  Jesus  loathed  it,  and  to  become  dead 
to  it,  and  be  entirely  delivered  from  it  \  It  is 
the  source  of  all  our  miseries,  the  cause  of  all 
our  pains,  and  the  occasion  of  all  our  troubles.  It 
cannot  be  hid,  it  will  find  us  out,  and  sorely 
wound  us. 

O  God,  our  sins  have  found  us  out, 

And  melted  us  with  grief ! 
Before  Thy  throne  ourselves  we  cast, 

And  supplicate  rehef : 
To  Jesus'  feet  we  now  repair, 
And  seek,  and  find  salvation  there. 

290 


OCTOBER    13. 


Return,  ye  backsliding  children.     Jer.  iii.  22. 

We   are  prone  to  wander,  and  are  daily  going 
astray  ;  our  God  may  justly  cast  us  off,  but  He 
lovingly  invites  us   to  return.     He   bids  us  take 
words  and  coine  to  Plim,  and  gives  us  every  en- 
couragement to  hasten   to  His  feet.      We  are 
CHILDREN,    though    baclvsliding  ;    and    it   is   our 
Father   who   bids  us   return.      Beloved,   let  us 
return  to  our  God  this  morning,  let  us  confess 
our   sin,    deplore  our    folly,    crave    His    pardon, 
plead  His  word,  hope  in  His  mercy,  and   expect 
the  token  of  reconciliation  and  love.     What  an 
unspeakable  mercy  to  have  such  a  Father  !     So 
ready  to  forgive  I     So  willing  to  receive  !     So  de- 
sirous that  we  should  be  happy  and  blest  I     His 
love  is  wonderful.   His   forbearance  beyond  de- 
scription.     See  His  arms  extended  ;    hear  His 
word  inviting ;  and  hasten  to  be  blest.     Do  not 
dwell   on  your  miseries,  or   your  wretchedness  ; 
they  are  the  effects  of  your  backsliding  ;  but  He 
says,  "  I  will  heal  your  backslidings."     "  Come, 
and  let  us  return   unto  the  Lord  ;  for  He  hath 
torn,  and   will   heal  us  ;  He   hath   smitten,  and 
He  will  bind  us  up."     His  heart  is  grieved  for  us. 
His  word  invites  us,  and  His  love  will  make  us 
happy. 

Father  of  mercies,  God  of  love  ! 

Ob  !  hear  a  humble  suppliant's  cry  ; 
Bend  from  Thy  lofty  seat  above, 

Thy  throne  of  glorious  majesty : 
Oh,  deign  to  listen  to  my  voice, 
And  bid  this  drooping  heart  rejoice. 

251 


OCTOBER    14. 


I  will  restore  health  unto  thee.     Jer.  xxx.  17. 

Jesus  is  a  skilfal  Physician.  He  heals  all  the 
falls,  bruises,  and  dislocations  of  His  people. 
He  brings  health  to  the  heart.  Believer,  is  thy 
heart  hard,  wandering,  unbelieving,  or  wounded  ? 
Jesus  can  heal  it,  and  to  you  He  says,  "  Co.me 
AND  BE  HEALED."  He  rcstorcs  the  fainting,  the 
dying,  and  the  dead.  He  is  a  perfect  master  of 
every  disease.  His  terms  are  "  No  money  :  no 
PRICE  !"  But  He  will  have  an  absolute  surren- 
der to  Him  ;  you  must  refuse  all  other  medi- 
cines ;  take  all  He  prescribes,  bitter  or  sweet. 
Touch — trust — and  be  happy.  Jesus  is  Jeho- 
vah RopHi,  therefore  look  for  health  to  no  oth- 
er. Lodge  in  His  neighborhood.  Consult  Him 
daily.  Lay  open  your  whole  case  to  Him. 
Never  despond  until  His  nature  changes,  His 
skill  fails,  or  His  advertisement  is  withdrawn 
from  the  book  of  God.  Be  grateful  for  healing, 
and  show  your  gratitude  by  endeavoring  to 
send  others  to  Him.  Recommend  this  gracious 
Physician.  Trust  Him,  and  remember  His 
question,  "  Were  there  not  ten  cleansed,  but 
where  are  the  nine  ?  They  are  not  found 
that  return  to  give  glory  to  God,  save  this  stran- 
ger." Beloved,  come  to  Jesus  and  be  healed  ; 
and  be  sure  you  render  again  according  to  the 
mercy  shown  you. 

Saviour,  I  wait  Thy  healing  hand  ! 
Diseases  fly  at  Thy  command  ; 
Now  let  Thy  sovereign  tonch  impart 
Life,  health,  and  vigor  to  my  heart. 
292 


OCTOBER    15. 


And  He  marvelled  became  of  their  unbelief. 
Mark  vi.  G. 

Unbelief  is  represented  as  filling  Jesus  with 
surprise ;  and  is  it  any  wonder,  especially  our 
unbelief?  Consider  what  God  hath  done  to 
remove  doubt.  He  hath  sent  His  character, 
"  God  is  love."  He  hath  made  a  proclama- 
tion, "  Behold,  now  is  the  accepted  time ;  be- 
hold, now  is  the  day  of  salvation."  He  hatii 
given  an  invitation,  "  Look  unto  me,  and  be  ye 
saved."  He  hath  employed  entreaty,  "  As 
though  God  did  beseech  yon  by  us,  we  pray 
you  in  Christ's  stead,  be  ye  reconciled  to  God." 
He  hath  issued  a  command,  "  This  is  His  com- 
mandment, that  we  should  believe  on  the  name 
of  His  Son  Jesus  Christ."  He  hath  sworn  an 
oath,  "That  by  two  immutable  things  in  which 
it  was  impossible  for  God  to  lie,  we  might  have 
strong  consolation."  He  hath  given  His  Son  as 
a  pledge,  to  assure  us  that  "  whosoever  believeth 
on  Him  shall  never  perish,  but  have  eternal  life." 
He  hath  added  the  testimony  of  all  His  saints. 
Well  then  may  He  marvel  at  our  unbelief. 
Never  let  us  attempt  to  excuse  it,  but  let 
us  plead  and  pray  against  it,  until  we  con- 
quer it. 

O  Lord,  fulfil  in  me  Thy  •word, 

Now  let  me  feel  Thy  pardoning  blood, 

Let  what  I  ask  be  given ; 
The  bar  of  unbelief  remove, 
Open  the  door  of  faith  and  love, 

And  take  me  into  heaven. 

293 


OCTOBER    16. 


The  Lord  shall  be  thy  confidence. 
Prov.  iii.  26. 

Our  happiness  consists  in  knowing  God  and 
believing  Him ;  if  we  know  His  true  character, 
we  can  believe  His  precious  word  ;  and  if  we 
believe  His  holy  word,  we  enjoy  peace  and 
sacred  satisfaction.  He  presents  Himself  to  us 
in  His  word,  as  able  and  willing  to  make  us 
holy,  happy,  and  honorable.  To  him  we  may 
communicate  all  that  troubles  us,  from  Him  we 
may  receive  all  that  our  circumstances  require, 
with  Him  we  may  walk  and  enjoy  peace.  We 
may  be  confident  in  God,  for  He  has  power, 
love,  and  faithfulness ;  He  has  spoken  to  us,  will 
appear  for  us,  and  will  never  turn  away  from 
us ;  but  will  rejoice  over  us  to  do  us  good,  with 
His  whole  heart  and  with  His  whole  soul.  Let 
us  make  Him  our  confidence,  by  believing  His 
word,  frequenting  His  throne,  and  seeking  His 
glory  in  all  things.  Are  you  troubled,  fearful, 
and  cast  down  ?  Acquaint  now  thyself  with 
Him  and  be  at  peace,  thereby  shall  good  come 
unto  thee.  They  that  trust  in  the  Lord  shall  be 
as  mount  Zion,  which  cannot  be  removed,  but 
abideth  forever.  * 

Thou,  Lord,  on  whom  I  still  depend. 
Wilt  keep  me  faithful  to  the  end  : 
I  trust  Thy  truth,  and  love,  and  power, 
Shall  save  me  to  the  latest  hour  ; 
And  when  I  lay  this  body  down, 
Bestow  a  britjlit  immortal  crown. 


294 


OCTOBER    17. 


My  strength  in  made  perfect  in  weakness. 
2  Cor.  xii.  9. 

The  more  the  believer  feels  his  weakness,  the 
more  should  he  expect  his  Saviour  to  appear  for 
and  strengthen  him.  The  strength  of  Jesus  is 
imparted,  enjoyed,  and  displayed  in  our  sorest 
trials  and  most  distressing  seasons.  Never 
was  Abraham  so  strong,  as  when  offering  up 
his  beloved  Isaac  upon  the  mount;  never  were 
the  martyrs  so  courageous,  as  when  in  prison 
they  felt  their  entire  weakness,  cried  to  Jesus 
for  strength  ;  and  depending  on  His  faithfulness 
and  love,  left  all  and  went  to  the  stake.  Then 
they  could  exclaim,  "  None  but  Christ.  None 
but  Christ."  "  Farewell  life,  welcome  the  cross 
of  Christ."  Beloved,  let  us  walk  by  faith, 
not  by  feeling ;  when  we  feel  weakest,  the 
strength  -of  Jesus  is  nearest,  and  He  magnifies 
His  mercy  by  giving  power  to  the  faint,  and 
increasing  the  strength  of  the  weak.  Let  us 
depend  on  Him,  for  we  can  do  all  things  through 
Christ  who  strengtheneth  us.  He  is  our  strength, 
a  very  present  help  in  trouble.  The  Lord  is 
our  strength  and  song,  He  also  is  become  our 
salvation. 

Saviour,  on  earth  I  covet  not 

That  every  woe  should  cease  ; 

Only,  if  trouble  be  my  lot, 

lu  Thee  let  me  have  peace : 

Thy  grace  and  strength  display  in  me, 

Till  I  arrive  at  perfect  day. 


296 


OCTOBER    18. 


/  will  look  unto  the  Lord.     Micah  vii.  7. 

Looking  to  creatures  always  ends  in  disappoint- 
ment ;  therefore  it  is  forbidden  by  Him  who 
loves  us  best,  and  consults  our  best  interests  at 
all  times.  The  prophet  had  been  weaned  from 
this,  by  many  and  sore  trials ;  and  now  he  de- 
termines to  look  unto  the  Lord,  Let  us  imitate 
his  example.  We  cannot  do  better  than  look 
to  the  Lord,  as  our  Captain,  to  command;  as 
our  Master,  to  direct ;  as  our  Father,  to  provide  ; 
and  as  our  God,  to  defend.  His  name  is  a 
strong  tower,  the  righteous  run  into  it  and  are 
safe.  Looking  to  Jesus,  will  preserve  us  from 
a  thousand,  snares ;  and  prepare  us  to  suffer  as 
Christians  and  triumph  as  conquerors.  The 
eyes  of  the  Lord  are  always  upon  us ;  may  our 
eyes  be  ever  towards  the  Lord.  Let  us  look  to 
Him  for  all  we  need  ;  from  all  we  fear ;  through 
all  that  obstructs  our  progress ;  and  so  press  on 
towards  the  mark  for  the  prize  of  the  high  call- 
ing, which  is  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus.  He  says, 
"  Look  unto  me  and  be  ye  saved."  It  is  record- 
ed, '•  They  looked  upon  Him  and  were  lightened, 
and  their  faces  were  not  ashamed."  Jesus  is  the 
same,  yesterday,  to-day,  and  forever. 


Lord,  8hine  on  my  benighted  heart, 
With  beam3  of  mercy  shine  ; 

And  let  Thy  Spirit's  voice  impart 
A  taste  of  joys  divine : 

To  Thee  I  look,  to  Tliee  I  cry, 
Oh,  bring  Thy  sweet  salvation  nigh. 

296 


OCTOBER    19. 


I  will  call  upon  TJu:e,for  Thou  wilt  answer  me. 
Psalm  Ixxsvi.  7. 

Such  was  David's  purpose,  and  suoli  his  assur- 
ance ;  and  we  have  the  same  warrant  for  confi- 
dence as  he  had.  Our  God  will  answer  prayer. 
Let  us  inquire  what  is  necessary,  in  order  to  the 
assurance  that  our  God  will  answer  us.  We 
must  REALLY  MEAN  what  wc  Say  when  we  pray. 
We  must  pray  for  a  definite  object.  We  must 
pray  in  accordance  with  the  will  of  God,  as  re- 
vealed in  His  promises  and  precepts.  We  must 
pray  in  submission  to  the  will  of  God,  as  to  the 
time  when,  and  the  means  by  which  He  will 
answer  us.  We  must  heartily  desire  what  we 
pray  for.  Our  motives  must  be  pure,  as  that 
God  may  be  glorified,  sin  subdued,  and  Jesus 
exalted.  We  must  pray  with  importunity  and 
perseverance.  We  must  oiler  all  our  prayers  in 
tlie  name  of  Jesus,  and  expect  them  to  be  ac- 
cepted and  honored  only  for  His  sake.  There 
must  be  no  sin  indulged  ;  for  if  we  indulge  ini- 
quity in  our  hearts,  God  will  not  hear  our 
PRAYER.  We  must  pray  in  faith,  believing  that 
God  is,  and  that  He  is  the  rewarder  of  all  them 
who  diligently  seek  Him. 


Lord,  on  me  Thy  Spirit  pour, 
Turn  the  stony  heart  to  flesh ; 

And  begin  from  this  good  hour, 
To  revive  Tliy  work  afresh : 
Lord,  revive  me ! 

All  my  help  must  come  from  Thee. 


297 


13* 


OCTOBER    2  0. 


Behold,  thy  salvation  cometh.     Isaiah  Ixii.  11. 

The  Lord's  people  may  be  now  sorely  tried 
and  often  cast  down  ;  but  the  present  is  the 
worst  state  they  will  ever  be  in ;  they  are  hast- 
ing to  the  day  of  God,  which  is  to  them  tlio 
day  of  deliverance.  Their  salvation  is  on  the 
road;  they  will  soon  be  freed  from  all  disease; 
from  which  they  now  suffer ;  from  all  sin,  un- 
der which  they  now  groan ;  from  all  foes,  of 
whom  they  are  now  afraid ;  and  from  all  cares 
and  troubles,  with  which  they  are  now  burden- 
ed. Beloved,  why  are  you  so  fearful,  and  why 
do  desponding  thoughts  arise  in  your  hearts  ? 
Behold,  your  salvation  cometh;  behold.  His  re- 
ward is  with  Him,  and  His  work  before  Him. 
He  will  free  you  from  all  that  pains  you,  and 
raise  you  above  all  your  fear.  The  time  of 
deliverance  is  at  hand,  the  year  of  release  is 
near ;  the  trumpet  of  the  Jubilee  will  soon  be 
heard;  our  Saviour  will  arrive  to  lead  us  to 
our  Father's  house,  to  the  mansions  which  He 
hath  prepared  for  us,  and  so  shall  we  be  ever 
with  the  Lord.  Comfort  one  another  with  these 
words.  "  Behold,  the  Bridegroom  cometh,  go 
ye  out  to  meet  Him  !" 

V  • 

Jesus  beckons  from  on  high ; 

Fearless  to  His  presence  fly ; 
Thine  the  merits  of  His  Hooc], 
Thine  the  righteousness  of  God  ! 
Go,  His  triumphs  to  adorn, 
Made  for  God,  to  God  return ! 

298 


OCTOBER    21. 


TImu  shalt  guide  me  with  Thy  counsel. 
Psalm  Ixxiil  24. 

This  supposes  a  knowledge  of  the  Lord  as  in- 
finitely gracious  ;  inflexibly  just ;  inconceivably 
wise  ;  and  immutably  faithful :  except  we  know 
Him  we  cannot  trust  Him.  But  here  is  an 
entire  surrender  to  Him,  to  be  led  where  He 
pleases ;  as  He  chooses ;  and  by  whom  He  will. 
This  surrender  is  becoming,  prudent,  gainful; 
for  godliness  with  such  contentment  is  great 
gain.  Such  a  surrender  is  the  effect  of  faith  in 
the  Lord's  promise,  gracious  presence,  and  cove- 
nant character ;  it  exhibits  expectation  from 
the  Lord.  Whom  the  Lord  guides  He  pro- 
tects ;  He  preserves  ;  He  supplies  ;  and  receives. 
He  receives  them  now  at  the  throne  of  grace, 
to  be  His  charge  and  His  care ;  and  He  will 
receive  them  at  the  throne  of  His  glory,  and  in- 
troduce them  to  holiness,  happiness,  and  honor. 
Beloved,  have  you  thus  surrendered  ?  Are  you 
daily  surrendering  ?  Can  you  say  to  your  gra- 
cious God,  "  Thou  shalt  guide  me  with  Thy 
counsel,  and  afterwards  receive  me  to  glory  ?" 
If  so,  happy  are  ye ;  the  Spirit  of  glory  and  of 
God  will  rest  upon  you. 


Thy  word,  0  Lord,  is  light  and  food, 
Tlie  law  of  truth,  and  source  of  good ; 
Oh,  let  it  ricWy  dwell  within. 
To  keep  me  from  the  snares  of  sin ; 
And  guide  me  still  to  choose  my  way, 
That  I  no  more  may  go  astray. 

299 


OCTOBER   2  2. 


After  he  had  patiently  endured  he  obtained  the  promise. 
Heb.  vi.  15. 

Abraham  was  long  tried,  but  he  was  richly 
rewarded.  The  Lord  tried  him  by  delaying  to 
fulfil  His  promise ;  Satan  tried  him  by  tempta- 
tions ;  men  tried  him  by  jealousy,  distrust,  and 
opposition;  Hagar  tried  him  by  contemning  her 
mistress ;  and  Sarah  tried  him  by  her  peevish- 
ness. But  he  patiently  endured.  He  did  not 
question  God's  veracity ;  nor  limit  His  power  ; 
nor  doubt  His  faithfulness ;  nor  grieve  His  love  : 
but  he  bowed  to  divine  sovereignty  ;  submitted 
to  infinite  wisdom ;  and  was  silent  un  ler  delays, 
waiting  the  Lord's  time.  And  so,  having  pa- 
tiently endured,  he  obtained  the  promise.  God's 
promises  cannot  fail  of  their  accomplishment. 
Patient  waiters  cannot  be  disappointed.  Be- 
lieving expectations  shall  be  realized.  Beloved, 
Abraham's  conduct  condemns  a  hasty  spirit ;  re- 
proves a  murmuring  one ;  commands  a  patient 
one  ;  and  encourages  quiet  submission  to  God's 
will  and  way.  Remember,  Abraham  was  tried ; 
he  patiently  waited  ;  he  received  the  promise 
and  was  satisfied  ;  imitate  His  example,  and 
you  will  share  the  same  blessing. 


All  anxious  cares  I  fain  would  leave, 
And  learn  •with  sweet  content  to  live 

On  what  the  Lord  shall  send  ; 
Whate'er  He  sends,  He  sends  in  love. 
And  good  or  bad  things  blessings  prove 

If  blessed  by  this  Friend. 

800 


OCTOBER    2  3. 


We  should  walk  in  newness  of  life.     Rom.  vi.  4. 

All  who  profess   Christ  are  supposed   to   pos- 
sess  a   new   nature;  they    are    brought   under 
new    obligations;     and    are    expected   to   keep 
new  objects  in  view.     Being  baptized  into  the 
death  of  Christ,  and  participating  in  His  resur- 
rection, they  should  wallc  as  influenced  by  new 
principles;  the  free  grace,  holy  truth,    and  di- 
vine power  of  God,  should  lead  them  to  new- 
ness of  life.     They  should  walk  by  new  rules, 
no  longer   following   custom,  or   imitating   the 
world;  they   should    walk    according    to    God's 
word,  the  Saviour's  golden  rule,  and  bright  ex- 
ample.    The    love    of   God,    gratitude    to    God, 
and  zeal  for  His  glory,  should  be  the  motives 
from  which  they  act:  while  to  honor  God;  to 
enjoy  His  presence  ;  to  exalt  Jesus  ;  to  benefit 
others ;  to  prove  the  power  and  purity  of  their 
principles;  to  justify  their   profession:    and   to 
evidence  their  faith  and    love;    should    be   the 
ends  they  have  constantly  in  view.     A  new  life 
is  expected  from  new  creatures ;  and  without  it 
our  religion  is  vain,  and  our  profession  a  false- 
hood.    Beloved,  do  we  walk  in  newness  of  life  ? 

Finish,  Lord,  thy  new  creation, 

Pure,  unspotted  may  we  be ; 
Let  us  see  our  whole  salvation 

Perfectly  secured  by  thee : 
Changed  from  glory  into  glory. 

Till  in  heaven  we  take  our  place ; 
Till  we  cast  our  crowns  before  thee, 

Lost  in  wonder,  love  and  praise. 
301 


OCTOBER   24. 


I  am  Jesus.     Acts  ix.  5. 

I.MMANUEL  presents  Himself  this  morning,  and 
tells  us  He  is  exactly  suited  to  us,  whatever 
may  be  our  circumstances  or  feelings ;  He  says, 
"I  AM  Jesus."  Are  you  seeking  the  Lord  ? 
He  is  Jesus,  the  gracious,  powerful,  tender- 
hearted, ready  and  willing  Saviour.  Are  you 
tried,  troubled,  and  cast  down  ?  He  is  Jesus, 
the  constant,  sympathizing,  present,  wise,  and 
unchangeable  Friend.  Are  you  a  returning 
backslider,  filled  with  your  own  ways  ?  He  is 
Jesus,  and  He  says,  "  I  will  receive  you  ;  I  will 
heal  you  ;  I  will  restore  you ;  I  will  rejoice  over 
you,  as  the  shepherd  over  the  sheep  he  had  lost." 
Beloved,  Jesus  is  the  Lord  our  Grod,  our  all  in 
all ;  our  God  is  Jesus  the  Saviour,  merciful, 
kind,  and  tender ;  this  proclamation  is  cheering 
to  the  sinner,  and  delightful  to  the  saint.  Let 
us  remember,  whoever  may  change,  whatever 
may  change.  He  is  Jesus  still ;  still  touched 
with  the  feeling  of  our  infirmities ;  still  able  and 
willing  to  help  us;  still  full  of  compassion  and 
plenteous  in  mercy  unto  all  them  that  call  upon 
Him ;  still  ready  to  forgive,  waiting  to  be  gra- 
cious, full  of  pity,  and  pledged  to  receive  us. 


When  darkness  veils  His  lovely  face, 
I  rest  on  His  unchanging  grace; 
In  every  liigh  and  stormy  gale, 
My  anchor  holds  within  the  veil ; 
On  Christ  the  solid  Rock  I  stand, — 
All  other  ground  is  sinking  sand. 
302 


OCTOBER   2  5. 


In  everything  give  thanks.     1  Tliess.  v.  18. 

EvERVTHixG  we  enjoy  should  be  viewed  as 
coming  from  the  liberal  hand  of  God;  all  was 
forfeited  by  sin  ;  what  we  receive  is  of  grace. 
The  providence  that  supplies  us,  is  the  wisdom, 
benevolence,  and  power  of  God  in  operation 
for  us  ;  as  expressive  of  His  infinite  love  and 
unmerited  grace.  Talents  to  provide  supplies, 
opportunities  to  obtain,  and  ability  to  enjoy, 
are  alike  from  the  Lord.  Every  mercy  increases 
our  obligation  and  deepens  our  debt.  Thanks- 
giving is  the  ordinance  that  God  hath  appoint- 
ed, that  we  may  express  our  gratitude,  and 
•acknowledge  our  obligation;  and  our  thanks- 
givings are  acceptable  and  well-pleasing  in  His 
sight.  Thanksgiving  is  never  out  of  season, 
for  we  have  always  much  to  be  thankful  for.  In 
everything  we  should  give  thanks,  to  that  end 
view  all  things  as  arranged  by  His  wisdom, 
dependant  on  His  will,  sanctified  by  His  blessing, 
according  with  His  promises,  and  flowing  from 
His  love.  All  our  blessings  come  through  Je- 
sus, and  all  our  praises  must  ascend  through 
Him  ;  for  our  Father  only  accepts  what  is  pre- 
sented in  the  name  of  His  beloved  Son. 


Praise  Him  who  by  His  word 

Supplies  our  every  need, 
And  gives  us  Christ  the  Lord, 
Our  hungry  souls  to  feed  : 
Thanks  be  to  God  for  every  good, 
Eternal  thanks  for  Jesus'  blood. 

30"; 


OCTOBEE    2  6. 


Am  I  in  God's  stead?     Gen.  xxx.  2. 

All  our  mercies  are  to  be  traced  up  to  our  G-od, 
and  all  our  miseries  to  ourselves.  We  are 
constantly  making  ourselves  wretched,  by  de- 
parting from  our  God,  or  by  putting  creatures 
in  His  place.  We  often  put  persons  and  things 
in  G-od's  stead  in  reference  to  our  affections, 
loving  them  inordinately ;  in  reference  to  our 
dependence,  trusting  them  instead  of  Him  ;  in 
reference  to  our  worship,  idolizing  them  instead 
of  adoring  Him ;  and  in  reference  to  our  expec- 
tations, expecting  them  to  relieve,  comfort,  or 
deliver  instead  of  Him.  But  insufficiency  is 
written  upon  every  created  object.  No  creature 
can  fill  the  place  of  Jehovah,  take  the  richest — 
the  wisest — the  kindest — the  nearest  relative  or 
friend,  and  you  must  exclaim,  "  Vanity  of 
vanities,  all  is  vanity."  But  Jehovah  can  fill 
the  place  of  all ;  He  can  be  instead  of  Father, 
Husband,  Child,  Wealth,  Health,  yea,  of  all 
things.  Creatures  may  say,  Am  I  in  God's 
stead  ?  If  not,  why  look  to  me  ?  why  depend  on 
me  ?  why  expect  from  me  ?  why  grieve  so  to 
part  with  me  ?  Am  I  in  G-od's  stead  ?  If  so.  He 
will  remove  me,  or  I  shall  disappoint  you. 


Heavenly  Adam,  life  divine, 
Change  my  nature  into  Thine  : 
Move  and  spread  throughout  my  soul, 
Actuate  and  fill  the  -whole ; 
Now  my  fainting  soul  revive  ; 
There  forever  walk  and  live. 
804 


OCTOBER    27. 


The  Lord  will  give  grace  and  glory.     Ps.  Ixxxiv.  11. 

This  is  good  news,  for  except  the  Lord  give 
us  grace  Ave  shall  never  be  sanctified;  and  un- 
less He  give  us  glory  we  shall  never  be  glori- 
fied. All  must  be  the  free  gift  of  free  grace. 
If  anything  good  was  required  of  us  to  entitle 
us,  we  must  sit  down  in  despair ;  but  now  all 
is  of  divine  bounty,  we  can  hope  ;  we  need  not 
be  afraid.  The  Lord  has  given  grace  to  thou- 
sands. He  has  given  grace  to  us  ;  and  He  will 
give  more  grace  ;  grace  to  fit  for  duty,  grace  to 
support  in  trial,  grace  to  sanctify  the  heart ;  and 
He  will  give  glory,  which  is  grace  in  perfection. 
Brethren,  let  us  endeavor  to  believe  that  our 
God  is  as  kind,  bountiful,  and  beneficent  as 
His  word  declares.  Let  us  confess  our  sins 
before  Him,  seek  grace  from  Him,  and  look  to 
be  glorified  with  Him.  Our  all  is  in  God  ;  our 
all  must  come  from  God  ;  and  all  the  glory 
should  be  daily  given  to  God.  Whenever  we 
want  grace,  let  us  ask  it  of  God  ;  for  He  giveth 
liberally  and  upbraideth  not.  Let  us  approach 
His  throne  this  morning,  and  be  this  our  prayer, 
"  Lord,  give  us  more  grace.  Give  us  grace 
daily,  grace  to  devote  us  to  Thy  service,  and  fill 
us  with  holy  love." 

Blest  is  our  lot,  whate'er  befall  ; 
Who  can  affright,  or  who  appal  ? — 
Since  on  Thy  strength,  our  rock,  our  all, 
Jesus  !  we  cling  to  Thee. 

305 
14 


OCTOBER   2  8. 


Son,  go  work  to-day  inmy  vineyard.    Matt.  xxi.  28. 

Some  are  God's  sons  only  by  creation ;  the  Jews 
were  so  by  national  adoption;  believers  are  so 
by  regeneration.  They  are  born  of  G-od,  and 
adopted  by  G-od.  Oar  G-od  never  intended 
that  His  children  should  be  idle;  He  says  to 
every  child,  "  Son,  go  work."  This  is  the 
command  of  a  Father;  it  contains  affection,  it 
flows  from  authority.  We  are  to  work  for  His 
glory,  for  the  good  of  others,  and  to  lay  up  for 
ourselves  treasures  in  heaven.  Working  for  God 
is  creditable — profitable — pleasant.  Our  work 
is  in  His  vineyard,  the  church  finds  work  for 
all.  Some  are  employed  to  plant,  some  to 
weed,  some  to  water,  and  some  to  watch.  The 
command  is  "  Work  to-day."  The  present  is 
the  period.  To-day,  while  you  have  light, 
strength,  and  opportunity.  Remember,  it  is 
but  a  day,  a  short  period  at  longest,  but  it 
often  proves  to  be  but  a  short  day.  Are  you 
standing  all  the  day  idle  ?  G-o  into  the  vine- 
yard. Are  you  discouraged?  Imitate  her  who 
did  what  she  could.  Look  to  the  Lord ;  He 
will  give  ability-opportunity — and  crown  with 
success. 

0  give  me,  Lord,  an  upright  heart, 

Well  nurtured  with  a  godly  fear, 
Which  from  thy  precepts  will  not  start. 

When  clouds  and  threatening  storms  appear : 
But  onward  press  with  even  pace, 
Refresh'd  and  fortified  by  grace. 

S06 


OCTOBER    29. 


The  love  that  God  hath  to  us.     1  John  iv.  16. 

Who  shall  describe  it  ?  What  tongue  or  pen 
can  set  it  forth  ?  It  is  infinite,  and  what  can 
finite  mortals  say  ?  It  is  eternal,  and  how  can 
we  who  are  but  of  yesterday  declare  it  ?  It  is 
the  present  heaven  of  the  saints,  to  know  and 
believe  the  love  that  God  hath  to  them.  None 
can  reveal  it  to  us,  or  shed  it  abroad  in  our 
hearts,  but  the  Holy  Grhost.  He  can  direct 
our  hearts  into  the  love  of  God,  and  into  the 
patience  of  Jesus  Christ.  He  is  in  office  to 
show  the  saints  the  things  of  God,  and  enable 
them  to  believe  and  enjoy  them.  Let  us,  be- 
loved, daily  pray  that  we  may  know  and  enjoy 
the  love  that  God  hath  to  us ;  it  will  be  an  an- 
tidote to  all  our  miseries,  a  source  of  joy  under 
all  our  sorrows.  Our  friends  and  frames  may 
change,  but  the  love  of  God  is  unchangeable. 
Our  temporal  prospects  may  be  all  blighted, 
but  if  we  know  and  enjoy  the  love  of  God,  we 
cannot  be  unhappy.  Who,  or  what  shall  sep- 
arate   us    FROM    THE    LOVE    OF    GoD  ?       JcSUS    liaS 

told  us  that  we  shall  never  perish,  neither  shall 
any  pluck  us  out  of  His  hand.  The  love  of  our 
God  is  the  source  of  our  happiness,  and  the  cause 
of  our  safety.  Oh,  to  know  and  believe  the  love 
which  God  hath  to  us  I     God  is  love. 

"What  shall  I  do  my  God  to  love  ? 

My  loving  God  to  praise  ? 
The  length,  and  breadth,  and  height  to  prove, 

And  depth  of  sovereign  grace  ? 

307 


OCTOBER    30. 


Take  heed,  and  beware  of  covetousiiess.    Luke  xii.  15. 

Tins  is  a  warning  from  the  lips  of  our  beloved 
Lord.  He  knows  our  weakness  and  our  foes, 
and  He  cautions  us  against  them.  "We  want 
but  little  here  below,  for  we  shall  not  be  here 
long ;  and  we  are  going  to  the  land  of  plenty, 
rest,  and  joy.  A  little  with  the  Lord's  blessing 
is  enough.  We  ought  not  to  be  anxious  about 
temporals;  only  let  us  be  careful  that  the  world 
is  not  a  loser  by  us,  and  we  need  trouble  no 
farther.  The  Lord  will  give  us  enough  if  we  are 
living  by  faith  upon  Him,  and  walking  in  com- 
munion with  Him.  We  are  all  prone  to  be 
covetous,  and  it  is  a  fearful  sin.  Covetousncss 
is  idolatry.  It  steals  the  heart  from  G-od,  and 
sets  it  upon  base  and  sordid  things.  It  prevents 
our  enjoying  either  temporal  or  spiritual  bless- 
ings. A  covetous  man  must  be  miserable,  must 
be  unholy,  must  be  lost  forever ;  well  may  our 
dear  Lord  say,  "  Take  heed,  and  beware  of 
covETousNESs."  It  is  sly  and  insinuating,  it  is 
deceitful  and  powerful;  and  if  it  once  becomes 
rooted  in  the  heart,  nothing  but  omnipotent 
grace  can  root  it  out.  Covet  only  the  best  gifts, 
spiritual  blessings. 


Great  things  we  are  not  liere  to  crave ; 
But  if  we  food  and  raiment  have, 

Should  learn  to  be  therewitli  content : 
Into  the  world  we  nothing  broiiglit, 
Nor  can  we  carry  from  it  aught; 

Then  walk  the  way  your  Master  went. 
508 


OCTOBER    31. 


Call  upon  mc  in  the  day  of  trouble.     Psalm  1.  15. 

Keep  the  straight  path  of  duty,  and  if  troubles 
come,  or  difficulties  arise,  thy  Grod  invites  thee 
to  call  upon  Him.  He  will  come  to  thy  help, 
and  bring  all  His  boundless  resources  with  Him. 
He  is  always  within  call.  His  ear  is  never 
heavy,  that  it  cannot  hear ;  His  arm  is  not 
shortened,  that  it  cannot  reach  or  save.  Ho 
can  make  thy  greatest  troubles  prove  thy 
choicest  blessings ;  He  can  give  thee  cause  to 
bless  Him  through  eternity,  for  thy  sorest  trials. 
Oh,  trust  Him,  and  fear  not !  Run  not  to  crea- 
tures ;  but,  "  Arise  and  call  upon  thy  G-od." 
Look  not  to  others,  until  thou  hast  proved  that 
He  cannot,  or  will  not  help;  and  that  will 
never  be.  His  heart  is  too  kind.  His  word  is 
too  faithful.  Art  thou  in  trouble  this  morning  ? 
If  so,  you  have  a  special  invitation  from  thy 
Grod  to  pay  Him  a  visit,  and  lay  thy  whole  case 
before  Him ;  expecting  His  sympathy,  inter- 
ference, and  blessing  ;  He  says,  "  Call  upon  me 

IN  THE  TIME  OF  TROUBLE.  I  WILL  DELIVER  THRE, 
AND    THOU    SHALT    GLORIFY     ME."       He     is     faithful 

who  hath  promised.  Oh,  trust  Him,  for  so  you 
honor  Him  ;  expect  from  Him,  and  you  cannot 
be  disappointed.  Wait  for  Him,  and  you  shall 
not  be  ashamed. 


Dear  refuge  of  my  weary  soul, 

On  Thee,  when  sorrows  rise, 
On  Tliee,  when  waves  of  trouble  roll, 

My  fainting  hope  relies. 

.309 


NOVEMBER    1. 


0  Thou  Preserver  of  men.    Job  vii.  20. 

We  have  neither  wisdom  nor  strength  to  pre- 
serve ourselves ;  we  are  daily  liable  to  fall ;  and 
unless  Grod  preserve  us  we  certainly  shall. 
Our  hearts  are  so  deceitful,  our  corruptions  arc 
so  strong,  and  Satan  is  so  vigilant,  that  we 
need  look  to  God  as  our  Preserver  every  hour, 
and  call  upon  Him  to  uphold  us  every  moment. 
He  can  preserve.  He  doth  preserve ;  but  only  in 
the  way  of  obedience.  Except  we  are  watchful, 
prayerful,  and  walking  humbly  with  Him,  we 
have  no  security  ;  we  may  fall  into  the  grossest 
sins,  and  commit  the  greatest  crimes.  0  be- 
liever, never  think  thyself  safe,  but  as  thou  art 
leaning  on  Jesus,  calling  upon  thy  heavenly 
Father,  and  cultivating  communion  with  the 
Holy  Ghost !  Indeed  thou  art  in  danger ; 
Satan,  the  world,  and  thy  corruptions  are  all 
leagued  against  thee  ;  nothing  but  onmipotent 
grace  can  keep  thee.  Cease  from  man,  trust 
not  thy  own  heart ;  but  keep  close  to  thy  good 
Shepherd.  He  is  able  to  keep  you  from  falling, 
and  to  present  you  faultless  before  the  presence 
of  His  glory,  with  exceeding  joy. 


Every  foe  must  fly  before  Him, 

Earth  and  hell  shall  feel  His  power  ; 

HeaveQ  and  earth  with  joy  adore  Him. 
Hail  the  long  expected  hour : 

Hallelujah ! 
Jesus  has  almighty  power. 

310 


NOVEMBER    2. 


They  were  tempted.     Heb.  xi.  37. 

That  is,  they  were  tried  ;  and  the  design  of 
their  enemies  by  these  trials  was,  to  draw  or 
drive  them  from  the  Lord.  Their  trials  were 
of  the  most  cruel  kind,  but  they  found  that  as 
their  day,  so  was  their  strength.  Brethren,  we 
shall  be  tempted;  Satan  is  not  dead,  no,  nor 
yet  asleep ;  the  world  is  not  reconciled  to  god- 
liness ;  nor  are  we  free  from  indwelling  sin.  It 
is  not  our  sin  to  be  tempted — this  is  our  trial ; 
but  it  is  our  sin  if  we  yield.  God  has  promised 
strength,  wisdom,  and  grace ;  and  we  should 
seek  these,  that  we  may  be  able  to  withstand, 
and  so  overcome  every  trial.  We  may  expect 
to  be  tempted  daily,  for  Satan  goeth  about ; 
and  if  at  any  moment  we  are  off  our  guard,  that 
is  the  time  he  is  most  likely  to  beset  us.  Let 
us  keep  close  to  Jesus  the  great  Shepherd  of 
the  sheep ;  let  us  keep  our  eye  on  our  Father's 
house;  and  let  us  aim  in  all  things  at  God's 
glory,  and  temptation  shall  not  harm  us. 
"  Blessed  is  the  man  that  endureth  temptation  ; 
for  when  he  is  tried,  he  shall  receive  the  crown 
of  life,  which  the  Lord  hath  promised  to  them 
that  love  Him."  If  the  enemy  come  in  like  a 
flood,  we  may  still  sing — 

His  oath,  His  covenant,  and  blood, 
Support  me  in  the  sinking  flood ; 
When  all  around  my  soul  gives  way, 
Jesus  is  all  my  hope  and  stay  : 
On  Christ  the  solid  Rock  I  stand ; — 
All  other  ground  is  sinking  sand. 

311 


NOVEilBEIl   3. 


What  would  ye  that  I  should  do  for  you?     Mark  x.  38. 

So  spake  Jesus  to  the  sons  of  Zebedee,  and  so 
He  speaks  to  us.  Beloved,  have  you  your  pe- 
tition ready  this  morning  ?  Jesus  is  at  the  par- 
don oihce ;  He  is  on  His  throne  of  grace ;  He 
is  in  a  loving  temper ;  He  is  ready  to  bless. 
He  says,  "  Ask,  what  shall  I  give  thee  ?"  0 
Jesus!  give  me  sanctifying  grace.  Subdue  my 
corruptions.  Purify  my  heart.  Make  me  a 
vessel  of  honor,  meet  for  Thy  use.  "Why 
should  sin  bo  allowed  to  work  so  powerfully  ? 
Why  should  Satan  be  permitted  to  have  so 
much  power  over  me  ?  Why  should  the  world 
attract  and  lead  me  astray  ?  Lord,  I  would 
that  thou  shouldest  make  me  holy,  and  make 
me  useful ;  fill  me  with  Thy  Holy  Spirit ;  write 
Thy  word  on  my  heart,  and  enable  me  to  write 
out  Thy  precepts  in  my  life.  0  Saviour !  I 
would  that  thou  shouldest  make  me  lilce  Thy- 
self; as  meek,  as  humble,  as  diligent,  as  disin- 
terested, as  useful  to  Grod  and  man.  May  I 
be  holy,  harmless,  undefiled,  and  separate  from 
sinners.  Oh,  make  me  shine,  to  the  honor  and 
glory  of  Thy  free  and  sovereign  grace. 


Holy  Ghost,  no  more  delay ; 
Come,  and  in  Thy  temple  stay ; 
Now  Thine  inward  witness  bear, 
Strong,  and  permanent,  and  clear  : 
Source  of  life.  Thyself  impart. 
Rise  eternal  in  my  heart ! 

812 


NOVEMBER    4. 


They  limited  the  Holy  One  of  Israel.     Ps.  Ixxviii.  41. 

This  was  Israel's  sin,  and  has  it  not  often  been 
ours?  Our  Grod  is  the  Holy  One,  and  will  do 
what  is  most  for  His  glory ;  He  is  the  Holy 
One  of  Israel,  and  will  therefore  consult  His 
people's  welfare.  We  must  not  limit  His  wis- 
dom, for  it  is  infinite ;  we  must  not  limit  His 
power,  for  it  is  omnipotent ;  wc  must  not  limit 
His  mercy,  for  it  is  as  high  as  heaven  and  deep 
as  hell ;  we  must  not  limit  Him  to  time,  for  He 
will  display  His  sovereignty.  He  will  not  be 
tied  to  walk  by  our  rules ;  or  be  bound  to  keep 
our  time ;  but  He  will  perform  His  word, 
honor  our  faith,  and  reward  them  that  diligently 
seek  Him.  However  tried,  beware  of  limiting 
the  Holy  One  of  Israel;  say  not  "It  is  too 
difficult,  or  it  is  too  far  gone ;"  this  was  the 
fault  of  Martha  and  Mary,  but  Jesus  convinced 
them  they  were  wrong.  Rather  say  with  Jona- 
than, "  It  may  be  that  the  Lord  will  work  for 
us;  for  there  is  no  restraint  to  the  Lord  to 
save  by  many  or  by  few  ;"  Jonathan  honored 
the  Lord  by  trusting  Him,  and  the  Lord  honored 
Jonathan  by  giving  him  a  victory  over  the  ene- 
mies of  Israel.  Exercise  unlimited  confidence 
in  G-od,  for  He  will  fulfil  every  promise  He  has 
made. 

Wide  as  the  world  is  His  command, 
Vast  as  eternity  His  love  ; 
Firm  as  a  rock  His  trutli  shall  stand, 
When  rolling  years  sliall  cease  to  move. 

313 
14 


NOVEMBER   5. 


Be  ye  aho  cidarged.     2  Cor.  TJ.  1 3. 

Contraction  is  a  great  evil,  enlargement  is  a 
great  blessing.  We  need  to  be  enlarged  in  our 
knowledge — love — ^liope — liberality — faith — and 
every  grace.  Our  God  disapproves  of  contrac- 
tion. The  Apcstles  set  a  different  example. 
Provision  is  made  in  the  covenant  to  gratify  en- 
larged desires.  The  promises  warrant  enlarged 
expectations.  Jesus  bids  us  ask  largely.  The 
gospel  calls  for  enlargement  in  prayer — ^benevo- 
lence— pity — and  compassion — and  in  our  ef- 
forts for  God's  glory.  Let  us  beware  of  narrow 
views  or  feelings,  for  the  heart  of  God  is  large; 
the  love  of  Christ  is  large ;  the  provision  of  mer- 
cy is  large ;  the  gospel  commission  is  large ; 
and  the  mansions  of  glory  are  large.  We  are 
not  straitened  in  God,  nor  in  His  gospel,  but 
we  are  straitened  in  our  own  bowels.  0  Jesus, 
enlarge  our  narrow  hearts ;  expand  our  con- 
tracted souls!  Fill  us  with  all  joy  and  peace  in 
believing,  that  we  may  abound  in  hope,  by  the 
power  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  May  we  be  full  of 
goodness,  able  also  to  admonish  one  another. 
Oh,  to  be  filled  with  the  Holy  Ghost  and  with 
power ! 


With  holy  fear,  and  reverent  love, 
I  long  to  lie  beneath  Thy  throne  •, 

I  long  in  Thee  to  live  and  move, 
And  stay  mj-sclf  on  Thee  alone : 

Teach  me  to  lean  upon  Thy  breast, 

To  find  in  Thee  the  promised  rest. 

814 


NOVEMBER   6. 


Thou  art  no  more  a  servant,  but  a  son.     Gal.  iv.  7. 

It  would  have  been  a  great  mercy  if  G-od  had 
made  us  His  servants,  after  we  had  proved  His 
enemies ;  but  He  has  adopted  us  as  His  sons, 
and.  taken  us  to  the  bosom  of  His  love.  He  is 
now  our  Father,  and  wishes  us  to  call  Him  so ; 
we  are  His  children,  and  He  wishes  us  to  walk 
and  act  as  such.  We  are  not  mere  servants, 
therefore  we  should  not  be  servile ;  we  are  sons, 
therefore  we  should  love,  obey,  and  delight  in 
Grod.  as  our  Father.  "  Beloved,  noio  are  we  the 
sons  of  God."  "We  are  delivered  from  bondage, 
introduced  into  favor,  have  the  promise  of  eter- 
nal life,  and  should  rejoice  with  joy  unspeakable, 
and  full  of  glory.  It  was  free  grace  which 
adopted  us ;  the  Holy  Spirit,  by  the  word,  be- 
gat us  to  a  lively  hope  ;  and  the  gospel  pro- 
claims our  privileges,  and  invites  us  to  enjoy 
them.  Let  us  to-day  think,  "  I  am  a  son  of 
God.  My  Father  is  holy,  His  children  are  holy. 
His  word  is  holy,  He  loves  holiness,  and  com- 
mands me  to  be  holy  ;  I  will  therefore  lift  up 
my  heart  to  Him  ;  seek  grace  from  Him ;  and 
in  all  things  aim  to  glorify  Him." 


Pronounce  me,  gracious  God  !  Thy  son, 

Own  me  an  heir  divine  : 
I'll  pity  princes  on  the  throne, 

Wlien  I  can  call  Thee  mine  : 
Sceptres  and  crowns  unenvied  rise, 
And  lo'e  their  lustre  in  mine  eyes. 

315 


NOVEMBER    7. 


Goforvmrd.     Exodus  xiv.  15. 

Beloved,  there  is  no  standing  still  in  religion ; 
we  are  either  going  forward  or  going  back.  Our 
Captain's  command  is,  "  Go  korward."  This 
is  our  direction.  Go  forward  in  the  Lord's 
way ;  in  the  Lord's  work  ;  in  the  Lord's  king- 
dom. The  command  contains  great  encourage- 
ment. Go  forward,  remembering  the  Lord's 
wisdom  ;  trusting  in  the  Lord's  power  ;  and  be- 
lieving in  the  Lord's  love.  Go  forward  in  union 
with  the  Lord's  people ;  with  zeal  for  His 
glory ;  until  summoned  into  your  Master's  pres- 
ence. Go  forward,  notwithstanding  difficul- 
ties, fears,  and  discouragements.  Go  forward, 
because  God  has  bidden  you  ;  He  has  promised 
to  go  with  you  ;  He  will  crown  your  journey's 
end.  Let  us  imitate  ardent  and  holy  Paul,  who 
said,  "  Not  as  though  I  had  already  attained, 
either  were  already  perfect ;  but  I  follow  after, 
if  that  I  may  apprehend  that  for  which  I  am 
also  apprehended  of  Christ  Jesus."  Let  us  look 
for,  and  hasten  to  the  coming  of  the  day  of  God. 
There  is  nothing  behind  us  worth  a  thought,  if 
compared  with  what  is  set  before  us  by  the 
gospel. 

Much  ill  sorrow,  oft  in  woe, 
Onward,  Christian,  onward  go  ; 
Shrink  not,  fear  not,  dare  not  yield, 
Never  quit  the  battle-field : 
Forward  press  and  win  the  prize, 
Then  to  endless  glory  rise. 

816 


NOVEMBER   §. 


As  having  nothing,  and  yet  possessing  all  things. 
2  Cor.  vi.  10. 

The  Lord's  family  are  generally  poor  ;  men  may 
look  at  them  as  having  nothing  valuable,  im- 
portant, or  calculated  to  make  them  happy  ;  but 
in  reality  they  possess  all  things,  because  God 
is  theirs.  Our  God  has  said,  "I  am  their  in- 
heritance," and  we  say,  "  Thou  art  my  portion, 
0  Lord."  His  eternity  is  the  date  of  our  happi- 
ness— His  unchangeableness,  the  rock  of  our 
rest — His  omnipotence,  our  constant  guard — 
His  faithfulness,  our  daily  security — His  mer- 
cies, our  overflowing  store — His  omniscience, 
our  careful  overseer — His  wisdom,  our  judicious 
counsellor — His  justice,  our  stern  avenger — His 
omnipresence,  our  sweet  company — His  holiness, 
the  fountain  from  which  we  receive  sanctifying 
grace — His  all-sufficiency,  the  lot  of  our  inher- 
itance— and  His  infinity,  the  extent  of  our  glo- 
rious portion.  This  is  the  blessedness  of  the 
people  of  the  Lord ;  they  have  God  for  their 
Lord,  and  all  His  perfections  engaged  to  make 
them  blessed.  0  love  the  Lord  !  Live  upon 
the  Lord  !  Glorify  God  in  the  day  of  visitation  ! 
Make  Him  your  portion  and  everlasting  all  I 


To  us  the  privilege  is  given 
To  be  the  sons  and  heirs  of  heaven  ; 
Sons  of  the  God  who  reigns  on  high, 
Andlieirs  of  joys  beyond  the  sky  : 
Oh,  may  our  conduct  ever  prove 
Our  filial  piety  and  love. 

317 


NOVEMBER   9. 


0  God,  Thou  hast  taught  me  from  my  youth. 
Psalm  IxxL  17. 

The  Psalmist  was  called  early,  and  he  ascribes 
it  to  divine  teaching.     None  but  Grod  can  teach 
us  experimentally  ;   and  the  lessons  He    teaches 
are  always  useful  and  important.     He  teaches 
all  His  scholars  to  know  themselves — their  de- 
pravity, poverty,  and  slavery.     He  teaches  them 
His  law — its  purity,  claims  and  penalty.     He 
teaches  them  His  gospel — its  fulness,  freeness 
and  suitability.    He  teaches  them  to  know  Him- 
self:  as  a  reconciled  G-od,  as  their  Father  and 
faithful  Friend.      His  teaching  is  accompanied 
with  power  and  authority.     Are  we  taught  of 
G-od  ?     We  may  know  divine  teaching   by  its 
effects  ;  it  always  produces   humility,  they  sit 
at  His  feet ;  dependence  upon  Him  ;  abhorrence 
of  sin ;  love  to  God  as  a  teacher ;  obedience  to 
the   lessons   taught ;    thirst  for    further  attain- 
ments ;  and  brings  us  daily  to  Jesus.     Let  us 
earnestly    seek    divine    teaching ;     it    preserves 
from  dangers,  sorrows,  and  snares  ;  and  if  suit- 
ably improved,  it  brings  great  glory  to  G-od,  and 
honor  to  the  cause  of  religion.     Our  God  says, 
"  I  WILL  TEACH  THEE."      Lord,  tcacli  mc,   and 
make  me  entirely  Thine  ! 


Oh,  let  my  heart  bs  wholly  Thine, 

Thy  j>ropeity  alone  ; 
No  longer  let  mc  think  it  mine, 

Or  call  myself  my  own. 

318 


NOVEMBER    10. 


Behold  the  Lamb  of  God.     John  L  36. 

Sin  requires  a  sacrifice,  and  the  sacrifice  must 
be  in  proportion  to  the  offence,  and  the  dignity 
of  the  offended ;  such  a  sacrifice  coukl  not  be 
found,  but  Grod  condescended  to  provide  one, 
which  was  no  less  a  person  than  His  only-be- 
gotten Son.  This  Lamb  was  provided  to  ex- 
piate and  remove  sin  ;  to  honor  the  divine  gov- 
ernment, and  reconcile  us  to  Grod.  Let  us 
daily  direct  our  attention  to  the  Lamb  of  God, 
who  verily  was  fore-ordained  before  the  found- 
ation of  the  world,  but  was  manifested  in  these 
last  times  for  us.  He  is  set  forth  to  be  a  pro- 
pitiation through  faith  in  His  blood,  and  to  be 
the  daily  object  of  our  faith,  desire,  and  affec- 
tion. Provided  by  Grod,  He  presented  to  Grod 
an  infinite  atonement ;  and  we  have  redemption 
through  His  blood,  even  the  forgiveness  of  our 
sins.  The  Lamb  is  to  be  presented  daily  to  Grod 
by  us,  in  our  prayers  and  praises ;  and  all  our 
expectations  are  to  be  founded  upon  what  He 
is,  what  He  has  done,  and  what  He  is  doing 
now  before  the  throne  of  Grod.  Take  off"  your 
attention  from  all  other  subjects,  and  "  Behold 
THE  Lamb  or  GrOD." 


Cast  thy  guilty  soul  on  Him, 
Find  Him  mighty  to  redeem ; 
At  His  feet  thy  burden  lay, 
Look  thy  doubts  and  fears  away ; 
Now  by  faith  the  Son  embrace, 
Plead  His  promise,  trust  His  grace. 

319 


NOVEMBER    11. 


I  Ray  unto  all,  Watch.     Mark  xiii.  37. 

The  hour  of  death  is  uncertain,  and  the  second 
coming  of  Jesus  is  equally  so  ;  therefore  we  are 
commanded  to  be  always  ready,  and  to  be  on  the 
AVATCH.  His  coming  is  the  grand  object  of  onr 
hope,  and  should  be  our  daily  desire  and  prayer. 
It  will  be  awfully  grand.  We  are  deeply  inter- 
ested in  it.  It  is  certain,  necessary,  and  will  be 
sudden.  We  know  not  the  day — month — or 
year.  G-od  has  purposely  concealed  it,  in  wis- 
dom, in  mercy,  and  for  our  good.  He  com- 
mands us  to  AWAKE,  and  keep  awake.  To  be  at 
our  post,  and  employed  in  our  calling.  In  order 
to  our  watching  we  must  be  daily  believing  Je- 
sus will  come  ;  thinking  and  praying  to  be 
found  ready.  We  should  watch  the  signs  of  the 
times ;  the  workings  of  our  own  hearts ;  and 
over  our  daily  conduct.  We  should  walk  as  we 
wish  death  or  Jesus  to  find  us ;  and  transact 
every  business  as  though  Jesus  was  at  the  door. 
Would  you,  beloved,  wish  to  be  found  idle — 
contentious — at  enmity — or  murmuring — or  in- 
dulging in  any  sin?  If  not,  watch  against 
these  things ;  put  off  the  old  man,  and  put  on 
the  new. 

Behold,  tlie  awful  clay  comes  on. 
When  Jesus  on  His  ligliteous  throne 

Shall  in  the  clouds  appear  : 
With  solemn  pomp  shall  bow  the  sky, 
And  in  the  twinkling  of  an  eye, 

Arraign  us  at  His  bar. 

820 


NOVEMBER    12. 


The  Lord  is  my  helper.     Ileb.  xiii.  6. 

This  is  a  very  encoaragin^  view   of  the  Most 
High  G-oJ.     He  is  the  helper  of  His  people,  and 
therefore  it  is  that   they  are  more  than  conquer- 
ors.    Beloved,  let  us  remember  this,  when  called 
to  perform  self-denying  duties,  or  to  pass  through 
great  and    sore  troubles.      We    can  do  nothino- 
right,  apart  from  God  ;  but  we  can  do  all  things 
through  Christ  who  strengtheneth  us.     He  will 
help  us  in  every  distress,  bring  us  out  of  every 
trouble,  lead  us  through  the  world  with  honor, 
and  land  us  safe  on  the  shores  of  the   heavenly 
Canaan  ;  all  this  is  promised  to  every  one  that 
trusts  in  Him,  waits  for  Him,  walks  with  Him, 
and    aims    habitually  to    glorify    Him.      What 
sweet  encouragement  is  this  ;   we  have  an  om- 
NipoTEXT  HELPER,  Grod  in  the  person  of  His  Son 
is  our   DELIVERER  :  let  us  come  up   out  of  the 
wilderness  leaning  on  our  Beloved.      Let  us  not 
grieve  His  love,  or  dishonor  His  grace.     Let  us 
keep  a  clear  conscience,  maintain  a   holy  walk, 
exercise  simple  faith  on  our  covenant  God,  and 
then    we    may  boldly  say,   "  The    Lord    is    my 
HELPER,  I  will  not  fear  what  man  can  do  unto 
me." 


To  look  to  Jesus  as  He  rose, 
Confirms  my  faith,  disarms  my  foes  ; 
Exalted  on  His  glorious  throne, 
T  see  Him  make  m,  cause  His  own; 
Then  all  my  anxious  <.  ares  subside, 
For  Jesus  lives,  and  wiD  provide. 


321 


NOVEMCEll    13. 


Spcafc  evil  of  no  man.     Titus  iii.  2. 

Speak  of  no  man  from  an  unholy  motive,  or 
with  a  design  to  injure  him  :  this  is  decidedly 
wrong.  We  are  commanded  by  our  beloved  Sa- 
viour, to  love  our  enemies  ;  to  do  good  to  them 
that  hate  us  and  despitcfully  use  us ;  to  pray 
for  them  and  seek  their  salvation.  If  we  speak 
evil  of  them  we  dishonor  God,  bring  guilt  upon 
our  consciences,  grieve  the  Spirit,  and  spoil  our 
peace  of  mind.  If  we  can  indulge  in  detraction 
without  feeling  guilty  and  distressed,  our  con- 
sciences must  be  blinded,  and  our  hearts  har- 
dened through  the  deceitfulness  of  sin.  Our 
tongues  are  not  our  own,  they  are  bought  with  a 
price,  and  should  be  employed  in  the  service  of 
their  proper  owner.  Never  indulge  yourselves 
in  thinking  evil  of  another,  or  in  feelings  of 
jealousy,  envy,  revenge,  bitterness,  anger,  or 
malice  ;  for  these  are  earthly,  sensual,  and  devil- 
ish. How  unlovely  it  is  to  hear  one  professor 
speaking  evil  of  another  ;  the  hearer  speakcth 
evil  of  the  minister  ;  the  rich  speaking  contempt- 
uously of  the  poor,  the  mistress  of  servants  ; 
much  more  ministers  of  ministers.  Speak  not 
evil  one  of -another,  brethren. 


Whene'er  the  angry  passions  rise, 

And  tempt  our  thoughts  and  tongues  to  strife, 

To  Jesus  let  us  turn  our  eyes, 

Bright  pattern  of  the  Christian  Iffe  ! 

How  mild !  how  ready  to  forgive  ! 

Be  these  the  rules  by  which  we  live  ! 

322 


NOVEMBER    14. 


Consider  how  great  things  the  Lord  hath  done  for  you. 
1  Samuel  xii.  24. 

We  are  very  apt  to  dwell  upon  our  miseries,  and 
forget  our  mercies.  If  we  are  injured  by  man, 
how  seldom  we  forget  it ;  but  if  we  are  favored 
by  Grod,  how  little  attention  we  pay  to  it.  Let 
us  this  morning  consider  how  great  things  the 
Lord  hath  done  for  us.  He  gave  His  Son  to  be 
our  ransom.  He  has  given  His  Spirit  to  be  our 
guide,  and  His  word  to  be  our  directory.  He 
called  us  by  grace,  when  we  were  posting  to 
perdition  ;  wrought  a  change  in  our  hearts,  when 
we  were  enmity  against  Him  ;  and  pardoned  our 
sins,  when  we  expected  to  suffer  His  fiercest 
displeasure.  He  has  given  us  faith  to  trust 
Him  ;  promises  to  plead  with  Him  ;  and  proofs 
of  His  faithful  regard,  without  number.  He 
hath  supplied  us  through  all  our  journey,  cor- 
rected our  mistakes,  conquered  our  foes,  and  no 
good  thing  hath  He  withheld  from  us.  Let  us 
consider  these  things,  and  praise  Him  for  the 
past,  and  trust  Him  for  the  future.  He  that  is 
our  Grod,  is  the  God  of  Salvation  ;  He  hath  done 
great  things  for  us,  and  He  will  do  greater 
things,  that  we  may  glorify  Him  forever.  My 
soul,  consider  thy  obligations,  and  give  glory  to 
thy  God. 


Oh,  may  I  ne'er  forget 
The  mercy  of  my  God  ; 
Nor  ever  want  a  tongue  to  spread 
His  loudest  praise  abroad. 


323 


NOVEMBER    15. 


He  will  be  very  gracious.     Isaiah  xxx.  1 9. 

We  are  often  very  miserable,  always  very  un- 
worthy ;  but  the  Lord  is  very  merciful,  and  He 
will  be  very  gracious.  He  will  glorify  His 
grace  before  angels,  men,  and  devils,  in  His  ex- 
ceeding kindness  toward  us  ;  therefore  if  a  sense 
of  our  deep  depravity  and  entire  unworthiness 
discourage  us,  let  us  appeal  to  the  graciousness 
of  our  Grod,  and  rely  on  that.  "  He  will  be 
very  gracious  unto  us  at  the  voice  of  our  cry  ; 
when  He  shall  hear  it,  He  will  answer."  He 
has  said  that  when,  forsaking  our  evil  courses, 
we  return  unto  Him,  He  will  prove  Himself 
gracious.  "  Then  shalt  thou  call,  and  the  Lord 
shall  answer  ;  thou  shalt  cry,  and  He  shall  say, 
Here  I  am."  Yea,  He  will  prove  Himself  very 
gracious,  fur  Ho  says,  "  Before  they  call  I  will 
answer;  and  while  they  are  yet  speaking  I  will 
hear."  Oh,  the  infinite  grace  of  a  gracious 
God !  Lord,  keep  it  uppermost  in  our  minds, 
and  before  our  eyes  continually  ;  let  it  be  our 
encouragement  under  all  the  discoveries  of  de- 
pravity we  make,  and  our  comfort  under  all  the 
trials  we  endure.  Let  us  endeavor  to  give  our 
God  credit  for  being  "  very  gracious." 


What  from  Cluist  my  soul  shall  sever, 
Boutul  by  everlasting  bands  ? 

Once  in  Him,  in  II im  forever, 

Thus  the  word  of  promise  stands  : 

None  shall  pluck  me 
From  the  strenirth  of  Israel's  hand^i. 


NOVEMBER    16. 


Arise  ye,  and  depart,  for  this  is  not  your  rest.    Mich.  iL  10. 

There  is  no  permanent  rest  for  the  believer  on 
earth;  here  briers  and  thorns  will  be  with  him; 
and  a  voice  is  daily  sounding  in  his  ears,  "  Arise 
YE,  AND  DEPART."  Here  you  are  not  to  loll  at 
ease,  or  to  idle  on  your  journey ;  here  you  are 
not  to  expect  to  find  satisfaction,  for  it  is  an 
enemy's  land,  and  you  are  only  passing  through 
it  to  your  heavenly  home.  If  your  march  is 
quick  and  your  conduct  scriptural,  be  not  sur- 
prised if  the  dogs  bark  at  you  ;  they  know  you 
not,  nor  did  they  know  your  Master.  He  was 
pursued,  annoyed,  and  at  last  put  to  death 
by  them ;  and  in  agony  of  soul  He  cried  out, 
"  Dogs  have  compassed  me ;  the  a.ssembly  of 
the  wicked  have  inclosed  me  ;  they  have  pierced 
my  hands  and  my  feet."  Lay  not  up  for  your- 
selves treasures  upon  earth,  where  moth  and 
rust  doth  corrupt,  and  where  thieves  break 
through  and  steal ;  but  set  your  affections  on 
things  above,  where  Christ  sitteth  at  the  right 
hand  of  Grod.  Use  the  world,  but  do  not  abuse 
it ;  pass  through  it,  but  never  seek  a  home  in  it ; 
remember  it  is  peopled  by  the  enemies  of  your 
God. 

When  snares  and  dangers  line  my  way, 
Jesus  is  all  my  strength  and  stay ; 
Cheerful  I'll  walk  the  desert  through, 
Nor  fear  what  earth  or  hell  can  do : 
Jesus  will  ease  my  troubled  breast. 
And  shortly  bring  ray  soul  to  rest. 

325 


NO  A^  EMBER    17. 


Be  ye  reconciled  to  God.     2  Cor.  v.  20. 

Is  there  anything  but  love  between  God  and 
your  souls  ?  There  ought  not  to  bo.  G-od  hates 
nothing  but  sin.  He  is  offended  with  nothing 
but  sin.  This  we  profess  to  hate  and  forsake. 
We  were  once  enemies,  but  Jesus  died  to  recon- 
cile us  to  G  od.  "We  are  now  professedly  friends, 
but  do  we  act  towards  GoJ,  and  speak  of 
G-od,  as  though  wo  were  His  friends  ?  Are 
we  offended  at  anything  in  God,  or  at  any- 
thing done  by  God  ?  Why  should  we  be  ? 
His  nature  is  love.  His  ways  are  all  infinite!}'' 
wise.  His  tender  mercy  is  over  all  His  works. 
He  desires  that  we  should  be  on  the  best  terms 
with  Him.  How  wonderful  I  He  offers  a  par- 
don for  all  our  sins,  grace  to  sanctify  our  na- 
tures, and   heaven  to  receive   our   souls !     Hr 

BESEECHES     US-    TO     BE     RECONCILED.         As    tllOUgh 

His  tender  love  could  not  rest,  as  though  He 
could  not  be  happy,  or  content,  unless  we  are 
friends  with  Him.  Beloved,  are  you  living  or 
walking  at  a  distance  from  God  ?  Is  there  any 
shyness  between  God  and  your  soul  ?  God 
beseeches  you  by  me,  and  I  pray  you  in  Christ's 
stead,  "  Be  ye  reconciled  to  God." 


Sprinkled  now  with  blood  the  throne 
Why  beneath  thy  burdens  groan  ? 
See  the  curse  on  Jesus  laid  ; 
Justice  owns  the  r.ansom  paid  : 
Bow  the  knee,  and  kiss  the  Son, 
Come  and  welcomi:,  sinner,  come  ! 

826 


NOVEMBER    1  §. 


I  will  be  as  the  dew  unto  Israel,     llos.  xiv.  5. 

Our.  hearts  by  nature  are  like  the  dry,  dead, 
and  barren  earth ;  there  would   be  neither  life, 
beauty,  nor  fruit,  but  for  the  grace  of  God.     And 
even  after  regeneration,  we  are    as   much   de- 
pendant upon  Grod,  as  the  earth  in  the  east  is 
dependant  upon  the  dew.     If  there  be  no  dew, 
there  will  be.  no  fruit,  and  if  there  be  no  grace, 
there  will   be  no    real    religion.      But  our   God 
has    said,    "  I    wii-l    be    as   the    dew  unto  Is- 
rael."    What  the  dew   is   to  the  earth,    God 
will  be  unto  His   people.     Doss  the   dew    cool 
and  refresh  the  earth  ?     So  will  the  Lord  cool 
and    refresh   our    souls   with   the   sense   of  His 
love  and  the   tokens  of   His    favor.     Docs   the 
dew  soften  and  break  the  clods  of  the  valley  ? 
So  will  our   God  soften  and  dissolve  our  hard 
and  impenitent  hearts.     Does  the  dew  prepare 
the  ground  for  the  seed,  and  cause  the  same  to 
vegetate  and  grow  ?     So  will  our   God  prepare 
our  hearts  to  receive  the  word,  and  cause  it  to 
grow  and  bring  forth  fruit.     Does  the  dew  fall  in- 
sensibly, and  in  the  evening,  when  most  needed  ? 
So  will  our  God  come  unto  us,  when  we  most 
need  His  quickening  and  fructifying  operations. 


Come,  Holy  Ghost,  as  heavenly  dew, 

My  parched  soul  revive  ; 
The  former  mercies  now  renew, 

Quicken  and  bid  me  live  : 
Thy  fertilizing  power  impart, 
And  sanctify  my  barren  heart. 

327 


NOVEMBER    19. 


It  is  good  for  us  to  be  here.     Mutt.  xvii.  4. 

So  said  Peter  when  on  the  mount  with  Jesus, 
and  so  we  have  said  when  enjoying  His  presence 
and  His  love.  It  is  good  to  live  and  walk  in 
communion  with  Grod.  It  is  good  to  be  num- 
bered with  God's  people,  and  to  occupy  a  place 
in  His  church.  It  is  good  to  be  in  the  present 
world,  because  we  have  an  opportunity  of  bear- 
ing witness  for  Jesus,  and  against  its  course ; 
we  have  talents  to  use,  and  opportunities  for 
usefulness,  whereby  we  can  glorify  Grod.  Is 
Jesus  honored  by  our  patient  suffering  ?  Then, 
when  on  the  bed  of  affliction,  we  should  say, 
"  Lord,  it  is  good  to  be  here."  Is  our  God 
glorified  by  our  industry,  forbearance,  and  tes- 
timony to  the  power  and  grace  of  Jesus  ?  Then 
when  in  our  business,  or  in  company  with 
those  whom  we  are  trying  to  benefit,  we  may 
exclaim,  "  Lord,  it  is  good  to  be  here  I"  Yes, 
Christian,  it  is  good  to  be  anywhere,  and  any- 
thing, so  that  thy  Jesus  may  be  glorified,  and 
the  end  of  thy  creation,  redemption,  and  sanc- 
tification,  obtained.  Oh,  to  aim  always  to  honor 
God,  and  then  we  may  everywhere  say,  "  Lord, 

IT  IS  GOOD  TO  BE  HERE  !" 


Great  Comforter,  descend 
In  gentle  breathings  down ; 
Preserve  me  to  the  end, 
That  no  man  take  my  crown  : 
My  guardian  still  vouchsafe  to  be, 
Nor  suffer  me  to  go  from  Thee. 

328 


NOVEMBER    2  0. 


Brethren,  the  time  is  short.     1  Cor.  vii.  29. 

Then  our  sufferings  must  be  short,  for  they 
are  bounded  by  time,  and  are  confined  to  the 
present  world.  Consoling  consideration  this. 
Then  our  opportunities  to  glorify  our  Grod  be- 
low, must  be  short ;  therefore  we  ought  to  seize 
them  and  improve  them  with  all  our  might. 
Then  the  triumphing  of  the  wicked  is  short, 
and  the  contradiction  of  sinners  against  us  will 
soon  be  ended  ;  let  us  therefore  be  patient,  and 
prayerful,  and  diligent ;  for  our  redemption 
draweth  nigh.  The  time  is  short ;  then  we  shall 
soon  see  our  Jesus,  enjoy  the  company  of  our 
sanctified  brethren,  and  be  forever  with  the 
Lord.  The  time  is  short,  but  eternity  is  long ; 
let  us  therefore  be  laying  up  for  ourselves  treas- 
ures in  heaven,  where  neither  moth  nor  rust 
doth  corrupt ;  and  let  us  be  daily  preparing  for 
our  last  remove.  The  time  is  short,  it  flies 
away,  our  dying  day  will  soon  be  here ;  it  re- 
maineth  therefore,  that  both  they  that  have 
wives  be  as  though  they  had  none ;  and  they 
that  weep,  as  though  they  wept  not ;  and  they 
that  rejoice,  as  though  they  rejoiced  not ;  and 
they  that  buy,  as  though  they  possessed  not. 


Ob,  may  my  soul  maintain  her  ground, 

From  faith  to  faith  go  on ! 
At  the  last  day  in  Christ  be  found, 
And  form  the  circles  that  surround 

His  everlasting  throne. 

329 


NOVEMBER    21. 


My  peace  1  give  unto  you.    John  xiv.  27. 

Peace  is  an  invaluable  blessing,  it  is  the  gift  of 
Jesus.  None  but  believers  know  the  sweetness 
of  the  peace  He  bestows.  He  made  it  by  shed- 
ding His  blood.  He  proclaims  it  in  the  ever- 
lasting gospel.  He  bestows  it  upon  us  when  we 
believe,  and  it  is  enjoyed  in  the  heart  under 
the  influence  of  the  Holy  Spirit.  It  is  peace 
with  Grod.  A  peaceful  conscience.  The  be- 
ginning of  heaven  in  the  soul.  He  gives  it 
often  when  in  the  midst  of  trouble ;  and  it 
makes  every  burden  light,  every  trouble  less, 
and  the  sinner  happy  in  every  situation.  0 
Jesus!  give  us  thy  peace  this  morning!  Let 
it  reign  and  rule  in  our  hearts  this  day. 
Believer,  look  only  to  Jesus  for  peace,  for 
"  He  is  our  peace."  Believe  His  word,  receive 
His  atonement,  trust  in  His  perfect  work,  aim 
to  show  forth  His  praise,  and  peace  which 
passeth  all  understanding  shall  fill  your  mind. 
Let  it  be  your  daily  prayer,  that  you  may  enjoy 
this  peace  in  death ;  for  then  you  will  die 
happy,  honorably,  and  safely.  Seek  it  as  a 
gift  of  grace,  and  you  shall  enjoy  it  to  the 
honor  of  God. 


Close  to  my  Saviour's  bloody  tree, 
My  soul  untired  shall  ever  cleave ; 

Both  scourged  and  crucified  for  me, 
With  Christ  resolved  to  die  iind  live ; 

My  prayer,  my  grand  ambition  this, 

Living  and  dying  to  be  His. 

330 


NOVEMB'ER   2  2. 


I  will  correct  you  in  measure.     Jer.  xxx.  11. 

Sin  procures  correction,  and  love  sends  it. 
Every  child  is  chastened,  because  every  child 
sins.  But  though  we  are  corrected  for  sin,  yet 
not  according  to  the  desert  of  sin.  Our  Father 
chastens  us  in  measure,  not  in  wrath,  but  in 
love ;  not  to  destroy,  but  to  save  us.  There 
is  no  wrath  in  His  heart,  for  He  has  sworn  that 
He  will  not  be  wroth  with  us;  yet  He  will 
visit  our  sins  with  the  rod,  and  our  iniquities 
with  stripes.  He  is  reconciled  to  our  persons, 
but  not  to  our  follies;  therefore  He  says,  "As 
many  as  I  love,  I  rebuke  and  chasten;  be 
zealous  therefore  and  repent."  Let  us  not  de- 
spise His  chastening,  nor  faint  when  we  are 
rebuked  of  Him  ;  for  it  is  the  common  lot  of  all 
His  children,  and  if  it  drives  us  to  Him,  and 
humbles  us  at  His  feet,  it  is  evidently  sent  in 
love.  It  is  a  painful  blessing  ;  a  mercy  sent  to 
purify  and  cleanse  us.  If  we  sin  and  are  not 
chastened,  our  sonship  is  questionable ;  for 
what  son  is  he  whom  his  father  chasteneth  not  ? 
But  if  we  are  chastened,  God  dealeth  with  us  as 
with  sons;  and  our  sufferings  are  the  fulfilment 
of  His  promise. 

Though  ten  thousand  ills  beset  thee, 

From  without  and  from  within, 
Jesus  saith,  He"ll  ne'er  forget  thee, 

But  will  save  from  hell  and  sin : 
He  is  failhful 

To  perform  His  precious  word. 


331 


NOVEMBER    9  3. 


Open  thy  mouth  wide,  and  I  will  fill  it.     Psalm  Ixxxi.  10. 

The  word  of  Grod  affords  all  possible  encour- 
agement to  earnest,  fervent  prayer ;  men  ought 
always  to  pray,  and  not  to  faint.  Believ- 
ers should  ask  all  they  want  of  G-od  as  their 
heavenly  Father;  they  should  ask  of  Him 
because  He  has  bidden  them,  and  expect  to 
receive  because  He  is  faithful.  Are  our  wants 
many  this  morning?  Our  God  bids  us  open 
our  mouths  wide,  and  promises  to  fill  them. 
We  should  ask  largely,  for  God  considers  Him- 
self honored  when  we  ask  for  much,  and  expect 
much.  He  rejoices  over  us  to  do  us  good.  He 
looks  upon  us  as  His  dear  children,  and  pledges 
Himself  to  give  all  that  we  want,  or  can  use  to 
His  glory.  Let  us  then  ask  for  a  supply  of 
every  want;  let  us  continue  to  plead  His 
largest  promises ;  and  let  us  continue  to  plead 
in  the  name  of  Jesus  until  we  receive.  Oar 
God  heareth  prayer :  and  if  we,  being  evil, 
know  how  to  give  good  things  unto  our  chil- 
dren, much  more  will  our  heavenly  Father  give 
good  things  unto  them  that  ask  Him.  Let  us 
therefore  come  boldly  unto  a  throne  of  grace, 
that  we  may  obtain  mercy  and  find  grace. 

Thou  art  coming  to  a  King, 
Large  petitions  with  thee  bring ; 
For  His  grace  and  power  are  such, 
None  can  ever  ask  too  much : 
He  Himself  has  bid  thee  pray, 
Therefore  will  not  say  thee  nay. 

332 


NOVEMBER   2  4. 


I  will  see  you  again.     John  xvi.  22. 

The  presence  of  Jesus  is  the  happiness  of  His 
people;  when  He  is  present  manifesting  His 
love,  we  are  filled  with  joy  and  peace  ;  but  when 
He  hides  His  face  we  are  troubled.  Nor  is  it 
any  wonder,  for  then  generally,  Satan  comes 
in  with  his  temptations ;  our  corruptions  rise 
and  trouble  us ;  and  for  a  time  everything 
seems  to  be  against  us.  But  if  Jesus  hath  once 
visited.  He  will  come  again ;  and  He  will  man- 
ifest Himself  unto  us  as  He  doth  not  unto  the 
world.  In  every  season  of  desertion  and  dark- 
ness, let  us  plead  this  precious  promise  given 
us  by  our  adorable  Lord ;  He  sympathizes  with 
us,  and  says,  "  Ye  now  therefore  have  sorrow  ; 
but  I  WILL  SEE  YOU  AGAIN,  and  your  heart 
shall  rejoice,  and  your  joy  no  man  taketh  from 
you."  Precious  Lord  Jesus,  let  us  this  day 
enjoy  Thy  presence  and  Thy  love ;  come  and 
visit  us,  or  rather,  come  and  take  up  thy  abode 
with  us,  to  leave  us  no  more  forever.  Our 
souls  thirst  for  Thee ;  we  long  to  enjoy  Thy 
love,  as  we  have  done  in  days  that  are  gone  by. 
Oh,  manifest  Thyself  unto  us  this  day,  and  unite 
us  closer  than  ever  unto  Thyself! 

Then  let  us  sit  beneath  His  cross, 

And  gladly  catch  the  healing  stream ; 

All  things  for  Him  account  but  dross, 
And  give  up  all  our  hearts  to  Him  ; 

Of  nothing  think  or  speak  beside  ; 

My  Lord,  my  love,  is  ciucilied. 

S33 


NOVEMBER    2  5. 


I  trust  in  Tliy  word.     Psalm  cxix.  42. 

It  is  unsafe  and  improper  to  trust  our  feelings 
or  fancies;  to  listen  to  suggestions,  or  judge  by 
appearances;  the  Christian's  guide  is  Grod's 
word,  and  this  should  be  the  object  of  His  trust. 
If  we  cannot  take  Grod's  word  and  depend  upon 
it,  what  can  we  trust?  It  is  true;  on  all  ne- 
cessary points  plain ;  it  has  been  tried  and 
always  found  faithful.  "We  should  believe  it, 
rely  on  it,  plead  it,  expect  its  fulfilment,  and 
comfort  ourselves  with  it ;  especially  when  sur- 
rounded with  difficulties,  when  in  darkness  or 
filled  with  forebodings,  because  Grod  delays  and 
our  prayers  are  not  answered.  Trusting  in  Grod's 
faithful  word  will  bring  peace  to  the  mind,  ex- 
perience to  the  soul,  and  deliverance  in  every 
time  of  trouble:  if  we  trust  G-od's  word  we  may 
be  confident,  for  our  supply  is  certain.  Trust- 
ing a  naked  promise  is  difficult,  but  it  is  attain- 
able, and  truly  desirable.  The  promise  is  G-od's 
bond,  and  is  intended  to  set  our  minds  at  rest ; 
if  we  trust  it  calmly  and  implicitly,  we  shall  en- 
joy peace,  quietness,  and  confidence.  Trusting 
God's  word,  we  need  fear  no  foe,  or  dread  any 
trouble  ;  all  is  safe,  and  safe  forever. 

In  Thee,  0  Lord,  I  put  my  trust ; 
Mighty,  and  merciful,  and  just, 

Thy  fiiitliful  word  I  prove  : 
Thou  canst,  Thou  wilt  my  helper  be ; 
My  coiilidence  is  all  in  Tiieo, 

Thcfaitliful  G.Kloflovo. 

331 


NOVEMBER    2  0. 


An  heir  of  God,  through  Christ.     Gal.  iv.  7. 

By  nature  we  are  cliildren  of  wrath ;  but  union 
to  Jesus  exalts  us  to  the  highest  pitch  of  honor 
and  happiness.  All  our  mercies  flow  through 
Jesus ;  we  must  ever  look  to  Him  as  the  me- 
dium of  access  to  God,  and  of  union  with  G-od. 
If  we  are  one  with  Jesus,  we  are  heirs  of  Grod  ; 
to  us  He  has  willed  all  the  riches  of  grace,  and 
all  the  riches  of  glory.  The  testament  is  made 
and  sealed,  and  all  is  secured  to  us  by  the  oath 
of  God,  and  the  blood  of  our  dear  Saviour.  Oh, 
what  an  honor !  To  be  the  heirs  of  God  I  To 
possess  and  enjoy  throughout  eternity  all  that 
God  can  impart !  Unutterable  grace !  We 
have  enough  secured  to  us  while  on  earth  ;  and 
we  shall  be  put  into  full  possession  at  the  res- 
urrection. Let  us  then  ascertain  beyond  a 
doubt,  that  we  are  the  sons  of  God ;  that  we 
have  received  the  spirit  of  adoption;  that  we 
are  united  to  Jesus ;  and  daily  walk  with  God. 
Let  us  live  expecting  the  day  when  we  shall  be 
put  in  possession,  and  preparing  for  that  glorious 
event.  Let  us  walk  worthy  of  the  vocation 
wherewith  we  are  called,  with  all  lowliness  and 
meekness,  watching  unto  prayer. 


Let  earth  no  more  my  heart  divide ; 
With  Christ  may  I  be  crucified ; 

To  Thee  with  my  whole  soul  aspire ; 
Dead  to  the  world  and  all  its  toys, 
To  idle  pomp,  and  fading  joys, 

Be  Thou  alone  my  one  desire ! 

335 


NOVEMBER   2  7. 


I  a) a  (fie  Good  Shepherd.     John  x.  11. 

Beloved,  are  you  in  the  fold  of  Jesus  ?  Are 
you  numbered  with  His  sheep  ?  Are  you  feed- 
ing and  resting  among  them  ?  Jesus  presents 
Himself  to  us  this  morning,  in  a  very  lovely 
character;  He  says,  "I  am  the  Gtood  Shep- 
herd." There  is  no  other  shepherd  so  good  or 
so  great  as  He.  He  has  the  tenderest  affection 
for  His  flock.  He  affords  them  His  powerful 
protection.  He  finds  them  plenty  and  suitable 
provision.  He  gave  His  life  to  redeem  them. 
He  sends  His  Spirit  to  sanctify  them.  He  is 
preparing  a  place  in  heaven  to  receive  them. 
He  will  eternally  dwell  among  them  and  bless 
them.  Oh,  how  great  is  his  goodness  I  He  is 
indeed  abundant  in  goodness  and  truth.  He 
says,  "  My  sheep  hear  my  voice,  and  I  know 
them,  and  they  follow  me ;  and  I  give  unto 
them  eternal  life  ;  and  they  shall  never  perish, 
neither  shall  any  pluck  them  out  of  my  hand. 
My  Father,  which  gave  them  me,  is  greater  than 
all ;  and  no  one  is  able  to  pluck  them  out  of  my 
Father's  hand.  I  and  my  Father  are  one." 
What  glorious  security  !  What  honor  is  con- 
ferred on  the  flock  of  Jesus !  Gtood  Shepherd, 
keep  us  near  Thyself.  Never  let  us  wander,  no, 
not  for  a  moment ;  but  may  we  be  always  de- 
lighted with  Thy  love. 

The  least,  the  feeblest  of  the  sheep, 

To  Him  the  Father  gave ; 
Kind  is  His  heart  the  charge  to  keep, 

And  strong  His  arm  to  save. 
886 


NOVEMBER    2§. 


The  day  shall  declare  it.     1  Cor.  iii.  13. 

Tiin  day  referred  to  is  the  day  when  the   Lord 
Jesus  shall  be  revealed  from  heaven  in  flaming 
fire,  when   the   dead   shall    be  raised,  and  the 
judgment  commence.     Oh,  what  a  day  will  that 
be !     Then    every   covering    shall    be    removed, 
and  every  secret  exposed.     It  will  be  a  reveal- 
ing  day — a  convincing  day — a  confirming  day 
— a  condemning  day — a  justifying  day.     Then 
our  motives  will  all  be  discovered,  and  our  in- 
tentions   laid    bare.      Hypocrisy    will    be    con- 
demned,  and    deception    punished.     0   beloved, 
let  us  live  as  having  that  day  before  us  ;   let  us 
act  as  though  persuaded  that  then   all   will  be 
discovered.     Are  we  sincere? — the  day  will  de- 
clare it.     Are  we  aiming  at  Grod's  glory,  or  self- 
exaltation  ? — the  day  will  declare  it.      Are  we 
conducting  our  business  on  Christian,  or  worldly 
principles  ? — the  day  will  declare   it.     Are  we 
honest  and  humble  ? — the  day  will  declare   it. 
Is  our   profession  from  principle,   from  faith  in, 
and  love  to   Jesus  ? — the   day  will   declare  it. 
Oh  that  that  day  may  declare  that  we  are  hum- 
ble, holy,  watchful,  diligent  disciples  of  the  Lord 
Jesus ! 

Before  me  place  ia  dread  array 
The  pomp  of  that  tremendous  day. 

When  Thou  with  clouds  shalt  come 
To  judge  the  nations  at  Thy  bar ; 
And  tell  me,  Lord,  shall  I  be  there, 

To  meet  a  joyful  doom  ? 


337 


15 


NOVEMBER   29. 


I  will  mention  the  loving-kindnesses  of  the  Lord. 
Isaiah  Ixiii.  7. 

"What  subject  so  suited  as  this  to  engage  the 
thoughts,  fill  the  memory,  and  flow  from  the 
lips  of  the  Lord's  people  ?  Let  us  mention  the 
provision  made  for  all  His  poor,  for  all  their 
wants ;  the  promises  given  to  all  His  people, 
comprehending  all  their  desires ;  the  prayers 
answered  in  all  times  of  trial,  granting  relief 
and  defence.  Let  us  mention  the  loving-kind- 
ness of  the  Lord  to  those  who  are  seeking  Him, 
it  will  encourage  them  ;  to  those  who  are  com- 
plaining, it  may  silence  them  ;  to  those  who  are 
tempted,  it  will  support  them  ;  to  those  who 
have  backslidden,  it  will  convince,  and  perhaps 
restore  them.  Let  us  speak  of  His  kindness  to 
ourselves,  to  check  murmuring,  produce  grati- 
tude, and  raise  hope.  Let  us  mention  the  loving- 
kindness  of  the  Lord,  at  the  Lord's  throne,  in 
pleading  and  intercession  ;  in  prayer  and  expos- 
tulation ;  in  praise  and  thanksgiving.  Let  us 
often  speak  one  to  another,  and  let  this  be  our 
daily  subject,  "  The  loving-kindnesses  of  the 
Lord."  This  will  comfort,  strengthen,  and 
sanctify  our  minds  ;  it  will  bring  us  peace. 


"We'll  speak  of  all  He  did,  and  said,^ 
And  suffer'd  for  us  here  below ; 
The  path  He  mark'd  for  us  to  tread,^ 
And  what  He's  doing  for  us  now ; 
Discarding  every  worldly  theme. 
Our  conversation  fill'd  with  Him. 
8S8 


NOVEMBER    30. 


Return  unto  thy  rest,  0  my  soul.     Ps.  cxvL  7. 

There  is  no  rest  for  the  Christian  but  at  the 
feet  of  Jesus ;  when  we  live  near  to  Him,  and 
exercise  our  faith  upon  Him,  we  are  at  rest. 
Conscience  is  silent,  or  commends  us.  The 
law  has  nothing  to  say  against  us.  The  world 
has  but  little  influence  over  us.  Satan  is  weak, 
and  cannot  overcome  us.  But  if  we  wander  we 
become  weak,  we  lose  our  courage ;  and  dark- 
ness, perplexity,  and  trouble,  frequently  fill  our 
minds.  But  we  may  return,  for  Jesus  is  still 
inviting  us ;  we  must  return,  or  we  cannot  enjoy 
peace  ;  let  us  therefore  return  unto  our  rest  this 
morning.  0  Jesus  I  we  come  to  Thee  !  Re- 
ceive Thy  wandering  sheep,  restore  unto  us  the 
joy  of  thy  salvation,  and  let  us  find  rest  at  Thy 
cross.  Oh,  to  rest  on  Thy  faithful  word,  with 
Thy  faithful  people.  To  rest  from  slavish  fear, 
worldly  care,,  and  distressing  anxiety  ;  to  rest 
in  Thy  boundless  love,  satisfied  with  the  dispen- 
sations of  Thy  special  providence.  Return,  re- 
turn, ray  soul;  from  all  thy  wanderings,  and  find 
thy  rest  in  Jesus  ;  thy  faithful  Friend  and  Sa- 
viour. Sweet  assurance,  "  He  will  receive  us 
graciously." 


Indulge  me,  Lord,  in  that  repose. 
Which  only  he  who  loves  Thee  knows : 
Lodged  in  Thine  arms,  I  fear  no  more 
The  tempest's  howl,  the  billow's  roar  : 
Tliose  storms  must  shake  th'  Almighty's  seat, 
Which  violate  the  saints'  retreat. 


339 


DECEMBER    1. 


The  Lord  God  Omnipotent  reigneth.     Rev.  xix.  6. 

Our  Grod  is  the  author  of  all  good,  the  only  ob- 
ject of  religious  worship  and  fear,  the  infinite, 
all-controlling  Being.  He  can  do  all  things,  and 
do  all  things  with  ease — swiftness — certainty — 
and  precision.  He  is  on  the  throne, — His  reign 
is  merciful — just — glorious.  He  reigns  univer- 
sally over  every  empire — kingdom — state — par- 
ish— person — thing.  Everything  that  takes 
place  is  either  appointed  or  permitted  by  Him. 
Everything  is  overruler^  ;  for  nothing  escapes 
His  notice — frustrates  His  purpose — or  disor- 
ganizes His  plan.  All  things  are  tributary,  and 
bring  honor  to  His  name.  Does  the  Lord  Grod 
Omnipotent  reign  ? — then  let  us  fear  to  offend 
Him ;  aim  to  please  Him  well  in  all  things  ; 
trust  in  and  rely  on  Him ;  call  upon  and  prove 
Him  ;  live  in  the  daily  remembrance  of  His 
reign ;  this  will  conquer  fear — prevent  sins — 
strengthen  faith — nourish  all  the  graces  of  the 
Spirit — and  inspirit  us  in  our  obedience.  If 
the  Lord  God  Omnipotent  reigneth,  be  sure  He 
will  take  care  of  His  children.  He  will  man- 
age all  their  affairs.  He  will  secure  their  best 
interests. 


Behold  the  King  of  Zion  rise 

To  endless  glory  in  the  skies  ! 

Hail,  Fount  of  blessings  ! — placed  in  Thee, 

Our  life,  our  strength,  our  all,  we  see  : 

While  in  thy  God  thy  joys  endiu-e. 

In  Thee  our  blessings  rest  secure. 


340 


DECEMBER   2. 


From  this  day  wlH  I  bless  r/on.     Hag.  ii.  19. 

AViiAT  day  ?  The  day  we  begin  to  seek  the 
Lord.  The  day  we  decide  to  be  on  the  Lord's 
side.  The  day  we  publicly  and  honestly  pro- 
fess Him.  The  day  we  heartily  engage  in  His 
work.  The  day  we  return  from  backsliding, 
and  repent  of  our  sin  before  Him.  The  day  we 
identify  ourselves  with  His  people  in  heart  and 
soul.  What  docs  the  Lord  promise  ?  To  bless 
us  ;  He  will  bless  our  temporal  mercies  ;  He  will 
bless  our  trials ;  He  will  bless  our  labors  ;  He 
will  bless  our  families  ;  He  will  bless  our  souls  ; 
He  will  bless  us  with  light — liberty — strength 
— peace — contentment — and  success.  Beloved, 
let  us  be  decided  for  the  Lord,  and  always  walk 
in  His  ways.  Expect  His  blessing,  for  He  has 
given  you  His  word,  and  confirmed  it  with  a 
solemn  oath.  Be  diligent  in  the  use  of  all 
means.  Constantly  look  to  Jesus  as  the  only 
medium  through  which  all  blessings  flow.  Plead 
this  precious  promise  before  thy  God  this  morn- 
ing, and  many  times  to-day ;  yea,  and  every 
day  ;  so  shall  thy  peace  be  like  a  river,  and  thy 
righteousness  as  the  waves  of  the  sea.  He  will 
bless  thee,  and  thou  shalt  be  a  blessing. 


Then  let  no  care  perplex  me  now ; 
My  only  wish  and  care  be  Thou, 

Be  Thou  my  sole  delight ; 
Bid  every  sigh  of  rising  thought, 
And  every  pant  of  breath  go  out 

For  Jesu3  day  and  night. 

341 


DECEMBER    3. 


Believe  the  Lord  your  God.     2  Chron.  xx.  20. 

The  proper  object  of  faith  is  Gfod  in  Christ,  not 
G-od  as  the  Grod  of  nature.  In  Christ  He  is 
gracious  unto  us,  ever  with  us  ;  ready  to  help 
us  ;  and  takes  pleasure  in  us.  Ho  is  our  cove- 
nant Grod,  all-sufficient,  and  ever  propitious. 
AVe  should  believe  in  His  word,  which  is  true 
and  faithful ;  in  His  presence,  for  He  will  never 
turn  away  from  us  ;  in  His  power,  for  nothing 
is  too  hard  for  Him  ;  in  His  character,  which  He 
will  never  allow  to  be  dishonored  ;  and  in  His 
faithfulness,  which  is  like  the  great  mountains, 
and  abideth  forever.  We  should  believe  in  God, 
though  men  rise  up  against  us ;  though  Satan 
worry  and  distress  us  ;  though  doubts  and  fears 
arise  within  us.  We  should  believe  in  God,  for 
strength  to  perform  duty ;  deliverance  out  of 
every  difficulty;  and  for  courage  in  every  con- 
flict. Believing  in  God  will  produce  content- 
ment, zeal,  and  humility.  Let  us  have  faith 
from  God ;  it  is  a  gift  which  He  is  willing  to 
bestow ;  and  let  us  have  faith  in  God,  it  is  an 
exercise  which  He  requires  and  approves.  If 
the  Son  of  man  were  to  come  would  He  find 
faith  in  our  hearts  ?     0  Saviour  I — 


Let  us  trust  Thee  evermore ; 
Every  moment  on  Thee  call, 
For  new  life,  new  will,  new  power ; 
Let  us  trust  Thee,  Lord,  for  all ! 
May  we  notliing  know  beside 
Jesus,  and  Him  crucified  ! 

342 


DECEMBER   4. 


I  will  go  in  the  strength  of  the  Lord  God.     Psalm  IxxL  16. 

Our  own  weakness  would  dismay  us,  but  God's 
strength  is  offered  to  us ;  in  His  light  we  see, 
and  in  His  strength  we  work.  We  have  duties 
to  perform,  difficulties  to  encounter,  and  foes  to 
overcome  ;  let  us  therefore  go  in  the  strength  of 
the  Lord.  It  is  promised  to  us  and  may  be  re- 
ceived by  us ;  we  must  ask  it  of  Grod,  we  must 
expect  it  in  faith,  and  go  forth  believing  that  He 
is  faithful  who  hath  promised.  Never  let  us  at- 
tempt anything  in  our  own  strength ;  if  we  do, 
we  shall  be  sure  to  fail ;  let  us  first  take  up 
Grod's  promise,  rely  on  His  veracity,  and  so  go 
forth  to  duty,  conflict,  and  danger.  Then  the 
battle  is  not  ours,  but  the  Lord's ;  then  we  are 
sure  of  success,  succor,  and  victory.  The  Lord 
will  then  be  our  strength  and  song ;  our  refuge 
and  certain  salvation.  His  strength  is  made 
perfect  in  weakness,  and  His  grace  is  glorified 
in  the  unworthy.  Let  us  not  fear,  let  us  not 
loiter,  let  us  not  despond,  but  let  us  go  in  the 
strength  of  the  Lord,  and  we  shall  be  more  than 
conquerors.  He  giveth  courage  to  the  faint, 
and  to  those  who  have  no  might  He  increaseth 
strength. 


I  know  the  God  in  whom  I  trust, 

The  arm  on  •which  I  lean  ; 
He  will  my  Saviour  ever  be, 

Who  has  my  Saviour  been  : 
Strong  in  His  strength  my  foes  I  face. 
Assured  of  victory  through  His  grace. 

343 


DECEMBER   5. 


Create  in  me  a  clean  heart,  0  God.     Psalm  ii.  10. 

Such  a  prayer  implies  a  conviction  of  sin,  a 
sense  of  pollution,  a  desire  for  holiness,  a  knowl- 
edge of  weakness,  grief  for  inconstancy,  and  tlie 
possession  of  true  wisdom.  It  is  the  prayer  of 
every  Christian;  let  it  be  our  prayer  this  day; 
let  us  lift  up  our  hearts  and  voices  to  our  God, 
and  cry,  "Remove  guilt  and  pollution,  produce 
purity  and  peace  in  our  hearts.  Cleanse  us  by 
Thy  word,  the  blood  of  Jesus,  and  the  influence 
of  the  Holy  Spirit."  Purity  of  heart  can  only 
be  produced  by  God  ;  it  enters  into  the  very  es- 
sence of  religion ;  we  cannot  be  godly  except 
we  are  holy.  If  we  love  sin,  if  we  can  indulge 
in  sin,  or  if  a  sense  of  having  sinned  does  not 
pain  us,  and  cause  us  to  adopt  this  prayer,  our 
religion  is  spurious,  we  are  destitute  of  the 
power  of  godliness.  No  real  Christian  can  live 
in  sin.  He  is  called  to  holiness.  He  is  the 
temple  of  the  Holy  Spirit.  Holiness  is  his  ele- 
ment and  health.  His  God  says,  "  Be  holy,  for 
I  am  holy  :"  and  he  cries,  "  Create  in  me  a 
clean  heart,  0  God."  Let  us  be  holy  in  all 
manner  of  conversation,  looking  for  and  hasting 
to  the  coming  of  Jesus. 


Supreme  High  Priest,  the  pilgrim's  light, 

My  heart  for  Thee  prepare ; 
Thine  image  stamp,  and  deeply  write 

Thy  superscription  there : 
Ah,  let  my  forehead  bear  Thy  seal. 
My  heart  the  inward  witness  feel. 


344 


DECEMBER    C. 


And  delivered  just  Lot.     1  Peter  ii.  1. 

Lot  was  a  godly  man,  justified  before  Grod  by 
faith,  and  justified  before  man  by  his  good 
works.  But  he  was  a  weak  man.  He  chose  to 
dwell  in  Sodom  because  it  was  a  wealthy  place  ; 
ho  aimed  at  a  fortune,  but  he  was  vexed  and 
grieved  daily,  by  seeing  and  hearing  of  the  un- 
righteous deeds  of  his  neighbors.  His  children 
married  into  the  world,  and  were  ruined ;  and 
he  himself,  though  delivered  by  a  gracious  and 
faithful  God,  suffered  severely.  His  sons  and 
their  wives  perished  in  Sodom  ;  his  own  wife 
was  made  an  example  of  on  the  plain  ;  he  was 
hurried  away  without  a  solitary  servant,  or  anjT 
property  of  importance ;  and  had  to  take  up  his 
dwelling  in  a  cave.  See  the  folly  of  being  led 
by  appearances  ;  let  not  the  heart  follow  the  eye. 
See  also  the  certainty  of  being  chastened  for  sin 
— just  Lot  could  not  escape ;  the  faithfulness  of 
divine  love  towards  its  wayward  children  ;  and 
the  importance  of  being  distinct  from  the  world. 
The  Christian  in  the  world  is  like  Lot  in  Sodom, 
and  if  he  choose  his  place  from  the  same  mo- 
tives, the  Lord  may  deal  with  him  after  the 
same  rule. 


Oh !  to  be  brought  to  Jesus'  feet, 

Though  sorrows  fix  me  there, 
Is  still  a  privilege  ;  and  sweet 

The  energies  of  prayer, 
Though  sighs  and  tears  its  language  be, 
If  Christ  be  nigh  and  smile  on  me. 

345 


DECEMBER   Y. 


Cast  not  aioay  therefore  your  confidence. 
Heb.  X.  35. 

Every  believer  is  confident  that  Jesus  Christ  is 
the  Messiah,  the  sent  of  Grod ;  that  He  is  the 
only  Saviour,  and  the  eternal  G-od.  He  is  confi- 
dent that  heaven  is  promised  to  all  true  believers, 
and  is  certain  to  all  holy  disciples.  He  gives 
credit  to  G-od's  word,  which  reveals  the  same,  is 
fully  satisfied  of  its  truth,  and  finds  courage  and 
boldness  to  profess  the  same.  His  confidence  be- 
ing produced  by  the  Holy  Spirit,  and  grounded 
on  the  divine  word,  will  lead  him  to  commit  his 
all  to  the  divine  blessing  ;  to  surrender  all  to  the 
divine  will ;  to  part  with  all  in  Christ's  quarrel ; 
and  to  rest  on  the  word  and  veracity  of  the  Lord 
Jesus.  His  confidence  will  often  be  assailed  and 
sharply  tried  ;  but  it  must  be  maintained,  for 
we  are  made  partakers  of  Christ,  if  we  hold  fast 
the  beginning  of  our  confidence  steadfast  unto  the 
end.  It  has  great  recompense  of  reward,  in  the 
present  life  a  hundred-fold,  for  all  it  parts  with 
for  Christ ;  and  in  the  world  to  come  life  ever- 
lasting. Beloved,  let  us  hold  fast  our  confidence 
and  rejoicing  of  hope  firm  unto  the  end. 


Protect  me  in  the  dangerous  hour, 
And  from  the  wily  tempter's  power, 

Oh,  set  my  spirit  free  ! 
And  if  temptation  should  assail, 
May  mighty  grace  o'er  all  prevail. 

And  lead  my  heart  to  Tiiee. 


346 


DECEMBER    §. 


I  rejoice  in  Thy  salvation.     1  Sam.  ii.  1. 

God's  salvation  is  a  deliverance  from  the  worst 
of  evils,  of  freest  grace,  for  the  best  of  purposes. 
He  saves  the  poor  and  needy,  the  guilty  and  dis- 
tressed, who  call  upon  Him,  and  believe  in  Him. 
And  we  who  have  obtained  mercy,  should  with 
Hannah  rejoice  in  God's  salvation,  as  those  who 
have  received  an  invaluable  favor  ;  as  those  who 
are  laid  under,  and  are  ready  to  acknowledge 
our  infinite  obligations.  Salvation  is  the  proper 
source  of  our  joy  and  rejoicing ;  and  while  some 
rejoice  in  property,  some  in  power,  and  some  in 
earthly  prospects,  let  us  rejoice  in  the  salvation 
of  our  God.  It  is  a  cause  for  rejoicing  in  sick- 
ness and  health,  in  poverty  and  plenty,  in  life 
and  in  death.  Although  the  fig-tree  should  not 
blossom,  neither  should  fruit  be  in  the.  vines; 
though  the  labor  of  the  olive  should  fail,  and  the 
fields  should  yield  no  meat;  though  the  flock 
should  be  cut  off  from  the  fold,  and  there  be  no 
herd  in  the  stalls :  yet  we  may  rejoice  in  the 
Lord,  and  joy  in  the  God  of  our  salvation  :  for 
not  one  thing  shall  fail  of  all  that  He  hath  spoken. 
Delightful  truth,  "  Salvation  is  of  the  Lord!" 


Join,  lieaven  and  eailh,  to  bless 
llie  Lord  our  righteousness ; 
In  Him  I  will  rejoice, 
With  clieerful  heart  and  voice  : 
In  Him  complete  I  shine ; 
His  life  and  death  are  mine. 

341 


DECEMBER   9. 


Walk  in  love.     Eph.  v.  2. 

Religion  is  love ;  the  love  of  Grod  shed  abroad 
in  the  heart,  transforming  our  nature  into  love. 
The  blessing  is  bestowed  to  be  exhibited ;  we 
are  to  let  our  light  shine,  and  walk  in  love. 
Under  the  influence  of  love  to  Gfod,  for  His 
mercy  towards  us ;  and  love  to  man  for  God's 
sake.  By  the  rule  of  love,  doing  unto  others  as 
we  would  they  should  do  unto  us.  Seeking 
their  spiritual  and  eternal  welfare.  Letting  it 
be  clearly  seen,  that  we  indulge  no  envy,  jeal- 
ousy, malice,  or  ill-will  in  our  hearts  against 
any ;  but  that  we  wish  them  well,  and  desire  to 
promote  their  best  interests  in  any  way  we  can. 
Love  should  run  through  the  whole  of  our  ac- 
tions, and  be  the  ruling  motive  in  our  souls. 
Grod  acts  towards  us  from  love.  The  Holy 
Spirit  is  the  Spirit  of  love ;  and  love  is  the 
brightest  and  surest  evidence  of  regeneration. 
Let  us  not  be  satisfied  to  feel  that  we  love,  but 
let  us  manifest  it ;  let  us  "  walk  in  love  ;"  this 
is  the  way  to  be  happy,  useful,  and  honorable. 
Bitterness,  wrath,  censoriousness,  and  selfish- 
ness, prove  that  we  are  under  sin  ;  but  love  is 
of  Grod  ;  and  he  that  loveth  is  born  of  God,  and 
knoweth  God. 

May  I  from  every  act  :ib.stain, 
That  hurts  or  gives  my  brother  pain  : 
Nay,  every  secret  wish  suppress, 
That  would  abridge  his  happinjss  ; 
And  thus  may  I  Tliy  follower  prove, 
Great  Piiiice  of  peace,  jjr^at  God  of  love  ! 
818 


D  EC  EM  B  Ell    10. 


Neither  pray  I  for  these  alone:  but  for  them  also  which  shall 
believe  on  me.    John  xvii.  20. 

Beloved,  when  Jesus  was  praying  for  His  dis- 
ciples, He  prayed  for  us ;  His  prayer  extended 
to  all  who  believe,  however  fearful,  weak,  and 
timid.  He  prayed  that  we  may  be  one  with 
Himself;  one  with  His  church,  as  members  of 
the  same  body,  children  of  the  same  family,  heirs 
of  the  same  inheritance,  and  parts  of  the  same 
spiritual  temple.  He  prayed  that  we  may  be  so 
one  as  the  Father  is  one  with  Him,  and  as  He  is 
one  with  the  Father  ;  that  we  may  have  the 
same  love  inflaencing  us  ;  the  same  object  always 
in  view;  and  may  exhibit  the  same  virtues. 
What  glorious  privileges  our  Saviour  here  prays 
that  we  may  enjoy  !  What  honors  He  seeks  for 
us!  What  unspeakable  blessedness!  Think  of 
being  one  with  God  ;  one  with  God  as  Jesus  is  ; 
one  with  the  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Spirit.  To 
be  of  one  mind,  one  will,  and,  as  it  were,  of  one 
soul.  Gracious,  gracious  Lord,  hasten  on  the 
time  when  this  all-comprehending  prayer  shall  be 
fully  answered  in  our  experience  !  Let  us,  be- 
loved, daily  pray  for  this  blessing;  nothing  can 
be  greater,  sweeter,  or  more  important. 

Thy  revealing  Spirit  give, 

"Whom  the  world  cannot  receive  : 

Fill  me  with  Thy  Father's  love  ; 

Never  from  my  soul  remove  ;  • 

Dwell  in  me,  and  I  shall  be 

Thine  through  all  eternity. 

349 


DECEMBER    11. 


Why  dost  Thou  strive  agaiiist  Him?    Job  xxxiii.  13. 

A  BELIEVER  strive  against  his  God  !  Yes,  it  is 
sometimes  the  case ;  he  may  strive  against  some 
of  the  doctrines  of  His  word ;  or,  against  some 
of  the  dispensations  of  His  providence ;  or, 
against  some  of  the  commands  He  has  issued. 
But  why  dost  thou  strive  against  Him?  His 
wisdom  is  infinite.  His  love  is  unchangeable. 
His  ways  are  all  righteous.  His  methods  may 
be  mysterious,  and  His  dispensations  trying ; 
but  His  designs  are  all  gracious  and  good.  It 
is  your  duty  to  submit  and  be  still.  It  is  your 
privilege  to  believe  and  trust.  It  is  rebellion 
and  treason  to  strive  against  Him,  for  He  giveth 
not  account  of  any  of  His  matters.  It  is  the 
glory  of  God  to  conceal  a  thing.  He  is  not  ac- 
countable to  any.  He  will  not  be  questioned  by 
the  curious,  or  called  to  an  account  by  the  proud. 
He  demands  our  acquiescence  on  the  ground  of 
His  perfections,  promises,  and  word.  He  will 
make  all  clear  and  plain  to  us  by-and-bye,  and 
then  we  shall  know  as  we  are  known,  and  b3 
perfectly  satisfied.  He  says,  "  Be  .still,  and  know 
that  I  am  God."  "  Be  silent,  O  all  flesh,  before 
the  Lord." 

Oil !  let  nie  live  of  Tliee  pi3se?s'd, 
In  weakness,  weariness,  and  pain  1 
The  anguish  of  my  laboring  breast, 
.  The  daily  cross  I  still  sustain. 

For  Him  that  languish'd  on  the  tree. 
But  lived,  before  lie  died  for  mc. 

350 


DECEMBER    12. 


He  is  the  Saviour  of  the  bodj.     Ephes.  v.  23. 

The  church  is  the  body  of  Christ.  Jesus  and 
His  people  are  one.  They  are  His  elect  whom 
He  hath  chosen;  His  seed  which  He  hath  be- 
gotten ;  His  portion  which  He  hath  received ; 
His  delight  and  glory,  in  which  He  constantly 
rejoices.  He  saves  them  by  substitution ;  He 
took  their  place,  their  obligations,  and  their  sins. 
He  saves  them  by  communication  ;  giving  them 
grace  and  His  Holy  Spirit,  with  every  spiritual 
blessing.  He  saves  them  by  instruction ;  for 
they  are  all  taught  of  God.  He  saves  them  by 
separation ;  bringing  them  out  of,  and  delivering 
them  from  this  present  evil  world.  He  saves 
them  by  visitations ;  He  grants  them  life  and 
favor,  and  His  visitations  preserve  their  spirits. 
He  saves  them  by  translation  ;  first  out  of  the 
kingdom  of  Satan,  into  His  kingdom  of  grace  ; 
and  then  out  of  the  present  world  into  His  king- 
dom of  glory.  He  saves  them  to  display  His 
perfections;  confound  His  foes;  exalt  His  name; 
satisfy  His  love ;  and  from  sympathy  with  them. 
All  who  are  saved  form  part  of  His  body.  Sal- 
vation is  entirely  of  God.  What  happiness  to 
be  saved  thus  I 

Joyful  truth,  He  bore  transgression 

In  His  body  on  the  cross  ; 
Tlirough  His  blood  there's  full  remission ; 

All  for  Him  we  count  but  loss : 
Jesus  for  the  sinner  bleeds, 
Nothing  more  the  sinner  needs. 

361 


DECEMBER    13. 


Ask  what  I  shall  give  thee.     1  Kings  iii.  5. 

We  are  not  straitened  in  our  God ;  He  has 
boundless  resources,  and  is  constantly  calling 
upon  us  to  ask  and  receive.  What  do  we  want 
this  morning?  Is  it  not  more  lioliness  ?  We 
want  our  understandings  enlightened,  our  wills 
brought  into  perfect  conformity  to  the  will  of 
God,  and  our  affections  fixed  on  holy  and  heav- 
enly things.  Let  us  agree  to  ask  these  things  of 
our  God.  He  will  give  freely,  cheerfully,  and 
plentifully.  Let  us  ask  as  Solomon  did,  wisdpai; 
even  that  wisdom  which  cometh  from  above, 
which  is  pure,  peaceable,  easy  to  be  entreated, 
full  of  mercy  and  good  fruits.  This  wisdom 
will  guide  our  hearts  and  direct  our  ways;  it 
will  lead  us  safely  to  a  city  of  habitations  ;  it  will 
lead  us  to  do  God's  will  with  pleasure,  prompt- 
ness, and  delight.  It  will  make  us  wise  to 
escape  from  Satan's  snares,  to  avoid  temptation, 
and  do  good  unto  all  men.  How  important  is 
this  wisdom  !  How  necessary  for  us !  Well, 
Jesus  stands  before  us  this  morning,  saying, 
"Ask  what  I  shall  give  thee  :"  in  Him  dwcll- 
eth  all  the  treasures  of  wisdom  and  knowledge, 
and  every  one  that  asketh  receiveth. 

0  sovereign  Love,  to  Tiiee  I  cry ; 
Give  me  Thyself,  or  else  I  die ; 
Save  me  from  death,  from  hell  set  free, — 
Death,  hell,  are  but  the  want  of  Tiiee  : 
My  life,  my  crown,  my  heaven  Thou  art ! 
Oil,  may  I  find  Thee,  in  my  heart  1 

352 


DECEMBER    14. 


The  author  and  finisher  of  our  faith. 
Heb.  xii.  2. 

All  Christians  have  faith,  but  some  of  us  have 
but  little  faith.  He  who  gave  us  what  we  have 
can  increase  it;  and  He  will  if  we  apply  to 
Him,  plead  with  Him,  and  wait  upon  Him. 
We  need  more  faith,  to  enable  us  to  escape  the 
many  dangers  that  are  in  our  path  ;  to  do  and 
suffer  the  Lord's  will  with  patience ;  to  hold  fast 
the  faithful  word  which  we  have  been  taught ; 
to  grow  in  grace  and  holiness ;  to  exercise 
forgiving  love  towards  those  who  have  grieved, 
offended,  or  injured  us;  and  to  honor  God,  by 
believing  His  promises — trusting  His  providence 
— expecting  His  interference — ^being  active  in 
His  service — and  leaving  our  concerns  in  His 
hands,  to  be  arranged,  directed,  and  brought 
to  pass.  We  are  encouraged  to  pray  for  more 
faith,  by  the  nature  of  the  request,  and  the  de- 
sign with  which  we  ask  it — by  the  promises 
which  God  has  given — by  the  precepts  of  His 
holy  gospel — by  the  examples  of  faith  set  be- 
fore us  in  the  word — by  the  well-known  char- 
acter of  our  God — and  by  the  blessed  results 
which  must  follow  from  having  such  a  prayer 
answered. 

Author  of  faith,  I  seek  Thy  face, 
The  work  of  faith  in  me  fulfil ; 
Confirm  and  strengthen  me  in  grace, 
To  do  and  suffer  all  Thy  will  : 
From  hell,  the  world,  and  sin  secure, 
And  make  me  in  my  goings  sure. 

353 


DECEMBER    15. 


Make  your  calling  and  election  sure.     2  Pet.  i.  10. 

Put  your  religion  beyond  a  doubt:  let  there 
be  no  reason  to  question  whether  you  are 
sincere  or  not.  Calling  separates  us  from 
sin,  Satan,  and  the  world ;  to  holiness,  Christ, 
and  the  church.  Election  is  the  root  of  call- 
ing ;  it  is  God's  choice  of  us  from  others — in 
Christ — by  grace — to  holiness — for  His  glory. 
We  know  our  election  of  God,  by  our  being 
led  to  choose  Christ,  holiness,  and  heaven;  to 
choose  them,  freely — heartily — and  habitually. 
If  we  thus  choose  them,  we  shall  use  every 
means  to  obtain  them.  We  know  that  we  are 
called  of  God,  by  our  calling  upon  God,  secretly 
— heartily — constantly — for  holiness — salvation 
— and  fellowship  with  Himself.  When  we  thus 
call  on  God  we  carefully  avoid  all  evil,  and  fol- 
low after  everything  that  is  good.  Let  us  give 
all  diligence  to  know  our  election,  for  it  is  worth 
all  the  pains  we  can  take,  or  the  time  we  spend. 
Let  us  follow  on  to  know  the  Lord — give  up 
ourselves  entirely  to  God — exercise  ourselves 
unto  godliness — seek  the  witness,  earnest,  and 
sealing  of  the  Spirit,  and  cleave  unto  God  with 
full  purpose  of  heart. 

Nothing  is  worth  a  thought  beneath, 
But  how  I  may  escape  the  death 

That  never,  never  dies  ! 
How  make  mine  own  election  sure. 
And,  when  I  fail  on  earth,  secure 

A  mansion  in  the  skies ! 

864 


DECEMBER    16. 


The  rirjldcoua  shall  hold  on  his  loay.     Job  xvii.  9. 

The  way  to  the  kingdom  is  rough  and  rugged, 
our  strength  is  often  small,  and  our  fears  are 
very  many.  But  if  we  are  justified  by  grace, 
sanctified  by  the  Spirit  of  truth,  and  pursue  a 
consistent  course,  there  is  no  doubt  of  our  safe 
arrival  at  our  Father's  house ;  for  "  the  right- 
eous shall  hold  on  his  way,  and  he  that  hath 
clean  hands  shall  wax  stronger  and  stronger." 
The  true  believer  shall  hold  on,  for  the  promise 
of  God  secures  him ;  the  fulness  of  Christ  sup- 
plies him ;  the  Spirit  of  grace  influences  him ; 
the  new  nature  urges  him ;  occasional  love- 
tokens  encourage  him  ;  and  attachment  to  the 
Lord  and  His  people  prevents  him  forsaking 
the  right  ways  of  the  Most  High.  Beloved, 
let  us  be  concerned  to  have  a  blameless  con- 
versation ;  let  us  live  near  to  and  walk  with 
Jesus,  then  our  graces  will  flourish  ;  we  shall 
become  rooted  in  Christ ;  our  daily  conquests 
will  give  us  courage ;  and  our  God  will  give  as 
He  hath  promised,  even  grace  and  glory.  It 
is  not  for  us  to  be  timid  ;  it  is  not  for  the 
righteous  to  despond,  for  he  shall  hold  on 
HIS  WAY.  "  They  go  from  strength  to  strength  : 
every  one  of  them  in  Zion  appeareth  before 
God." 

They  may  on  the  main  of  temptation  be  tost, 
Their  troubles  may  swell  like  the  sea; 

But  none  of  the  ransom'J  shall  ever  be  lost, 
Tlie  righteous  shall  hoLl  on  his  way. 

355 


DECEMBER    17. 


Let  the  viord  of  Christ  dwell  in  you  richly. 
Col.  iii.  16. 

TiiK  word  which  Jesus  preached,  or  the  word 
which  His  servants  wrote,  the  whole  word  of 
God,  is  the  word  of  Jesus.  Believer,  look  at 
your  Bible  as  containing  the  word  of  your  best 
Friend — loving  Saviour — and  final  Judge.  Let 
it  find  a  home  in  your  memories — affections — 
and  hearts.  Let  it  keep  house,  ruling — feeding 
— and  directing  your  souls.  Let  it  dwell  in 
you  plentifully,  and  know  how  to  apply  the  dif- 
ferent portions  to  difTerent  persons,  and  different 
cases.  Let  it  dwell  in  you  richly,  that  you  may 
have  that  to  plead  in  prayer  which  God  will 
notice — approve — and  accept ;  to  form — guide 
— and  preserve  your  judgments  ;  to  curb — bound 
— and  regulate  your  desires  ;  to  raise — confirm — 
and  direct  your  expectations;  to  silence — en- 
lighten— and  purify  conscience  ;  to  enable  you 
to  resist  and  overcome  Satan ;  that  you  may  be 
able  to  reprove  sin,  and  speak  a  word  in  season 
to  the  weary.  Let  the  word  of  Christ  have  the 
best  room  in  your  souls ;  let  it  be  your  daily 
meditation — food — and  directory.  "Let  the 
WORD  OF    Christ  dwell   in  you    richly  in  all 


WISDOM.' 


Still  let  Thy  wisdom  be  my  guide, 
Nor  take  Thy  light  from  me  away ; 
Still  with  me  let  Thy  grace  abide, 
Tliat  I  from  Thee  may  nev^pr  stray : 
Let  Tiiy  word  richly  in  me  dwell. 
Inspiring  me  to  do  Tliy  will. 


356 


DECEMBER    1§. 


They  are  enemiea  of  the  cross  of  Christ. 
Phil.  ui.  18. 

Thk  cross  of  Christ  is  the  Christian's  glory  ; 
and  few  things  would  give  him  more  pain,  than 
to  be  considered  its  enemy.  It  embraces  the 
whole  doctrine  of  salvation  by  grace  ;  and  is 
viewed  by  the  Christian,  as  the  foundation  of 
his  hope,  and  the  object  of  his  faith  ;  as  the  end 
of  the  law,  and  the  antidote  of  misery ;  as  the 
centre  of  truth,  and  subject  of  the  church's 
song ;  as  mercy's  sceptre,  and  the  Saviour's 
throne  ;  as  the  mirror,  in  which  Jehovah  dis- 
plays all  the  perfections  of  His  nature  ;  and  the 
key  that  opens  the  gates  of  the  celestial  para- 
dise ;  as  the  glory  of  eternal  wisdom,  and  the 
mystery  of  incarnate  love  ;  as  the  destruction  of 
death,  and  the  gate  to  everlasting  life ;  as  the 
object  of  the  angels'  wonder,  and  the  cause  of 
the  devil's  everlasting  confusion.  Beloved,  let 
us  fix  our  eyes  and  hearts  upon  this  glorious, 
this  surprising  object ;  and  never,  never  let  us, 
by  our  conduct  or  conversation,  bring  a  disgrace 
upon  it ;  but  let  us  endeavor  to  advance  its 
triumphs,  spread  its  glories,  and  bring  sinners  to 
admire,  love,  and  trust  in  it.  "  God  forbid  that 
I  should  glory,  save  in  the  cross  of  my  Lord 
Jesus  Christ ;  by  which  the  world  is  crucified 
unto  me,  and  I  unto  the  world." 

Ob,  may  my  single  aim  be  now 

To  live  on  Him  tliat  died, 
And  naught  on  earth  desire  to  know 

But  Jesus  crucified. 

357 


DECEMBER    19. 


If  yc  love  Me,  keep  My  commandments. 
John  xiv.  15. 

Here  is  the  Christian's  grand  rule  of  action, 
the  commandments  of  his  dear  Saviour.  Jesus 
commands  us  because  He  loves  us  ;  because  He 
desires  our  present  welfare  ;  because  He  will 
prove  the  sincerity  of  our  profes.sion ;  and  be- 
cause He  approves  of  the  obedience  of  faith. 
He  commands  us  to  imitate  Himself.  He  is 
our  great  pattern  and  example ;  and  we  .should 
endeavor  to  imitate  Him  in  His  Spirit,  and  de- 
sign, and  actions.  He  commands  us  to  believe 
Him,  profess  Him,  obey  Him,  and  continue  in 
His  love.  Here  we  have  the  Christian's  grand 
MOTIVE  and  spring  of  action — love.  Spiritual 
love  is  always  loyal  to  the  King  of  Zion  ;  jealous 
for  the  glory  of  the  Lord  of  Hosts  ;  and  deter- 
mined in  the  cause  of  the  Prince  of  peace.  The 
obedience  of  love  is  easy — hearty — and  thorough. 
Love  is  the  strongest  incentive  to  obedience ;  it 
conquers  fear — furnishes  with  zeal — equips  with 
courage — devises  the  means — surmounts  diffi- 
culties— and  triumphs  over  opposition.  Let  us 
inquire  from  what  does  our  obedience  spring  ? 
By  what  is  it  regulated  ?  Is  our  motive  and 
rule,  holy  love  ? 

Love  is  the  fountain  whence 

All  true  obedience  flows  ; 
The  Christian  serves  the  God  he  loves, 

And  loves  the  God  he  knows  : 
May  love  o'er  every  power  preside, 
And  every  thought  and  action  guide. 
35- 


DECEMBER    2  0. 


/  will  give  you  the  sure  mercies  of  David. 
Acts  xiii.  34. 

The  mercies  of  David  are  suited  to  a  sinner's 
wants  ;  they  comprise  all  he  needs  for  time,  for 
body  and  soul ;  and  al'  he  will  need  through 
eternity.  The  mercies  ol  David  are  covenant 
mercies ;  the  Father  has  engaged  to  bestow 
them  through  the  doing  and  dying  of  Jesus ; 
the  Son  has  secured  their  bestowment  by  His 
vicarious  sufferings  and  death  ;  and  the  Holy 
Spirit  will  put  the  Lord's  people  in  possession 
of  them.  They  all  flow  from  free  grace,  are 
revealed  in  the  promises,  and  are  stored  up  in 
the  fulness  of  Christ.  The  mercies  of  David 
are  sure  mercies ;  they  are  unconditionally 
promised  to  all  comers  ;  are  received  by  simple 
faith  ;  and  are  bestowed  by  Jesus  as  the  ap- 
pointed trustee  and  administrator  of  the  cove- 
nant of  grace.  They  are  sure,  for  God  has 
sworn,  and  will  not  change  His  mind,  or  remove 
His  covenant  of  reconciliation.  The  mercies  of 
David  are  given  mercies ;  no  desert  is  requisite 
to  establish  a  claim  ;  no  hard  conditions  are 
laid  down  to  entitle  ;  no  price  is  fixed,  or  money 
demanded  ;  but  it  is,  "  Come  and  receive 
freely." 

Thy  favors,  Lord,  surprise  our  souls ; 

Wilt  Thou  indulge  Thy  creatures  thus  ? 
The  stream  of  full  salvation  rolls, 

To  strengthen,  cheer,  and  comfort  us  ; 
How  rich  the  grace  !  how  kind  the  word  ! 
All  praise  and  glory  to  the  Lord  ! 

359 


DECEMBER   21. 


Oh,  keep  my  soul,  and  deliver  me.     Ps.  xxv.  20. 

What  a  mercy  to  have  a  God  to  go  to,  a  throne 
of  grace  set  before  us,  and  the  precious  name 
of  Jesus  to  plead.  How  encouraging  the  ex- 
amples set  before  us  in  God's  holy  word.  Let 
us  imitate  them  who  spake  as  they  were  moved 
by  the  Holy  Ghost.  We  are  going  into  the 
world  ;  the  business  of  the  day  is  before  us  ;  our 
hearts  are  false  and  fickle  ;  let  our  prayer  be, 
"  Oh,  keep  my  soul."  Keep  mo  from  sin,  let 
me  not  indulge  it  in  my  heart,  or  commit  it  in 
my  life  ;  keep  me  from  Satan,  suffer  him  not 
to  lead  me  astray  from  Thee  ;  keep  me  from 
men,  let  them  not  prevail  against  me.  Keep  me 
in  Thy  way — in  Thy  truth — in  Thy  church. 
Keep  me  by  Thy  word — Thy  Spirit — Thy  pres- 
ence— or  Thy  rod.  '"Deliver  me:"  from  guilt 
and  condemnation  ;  from  fear  and  shame.  Keep 
me  at  Thy  footstool,  and  deliver  me  from  my 
own  wandering  heart.  Let  me  be  clothed  in  the 
robe  of  righteousness — cleansed  in  the  fountain 
of  my  Saviour's  blood — accepted  in  His  glorious 
person  and  perfect  work — and  be  crowned  with 
loving-kindness  and  tender  mercy.  "  Keep  mc 
as  the  apple  of  the  eye." 

Ah,  will  not  He  who  ransomed  man, 

A  Saviour's  work  fulfil  ? 
Almighty  is  His  power — He  can : 

Boundless  His  love — He  will. 
Saviour  Divine  !  deliver  me, 
Oh,  keep  my  soul  still  near  to  Thee  ! 

360 


DECEMBER   22. 


They  shall  not  be  ashamed  that  wait  for  Me. 
Isaiah  xlix.  23. 

Waiting  for  the  Lord,  supposes  that  we  want 
Him  to  do  something  for  us ;  bestow  something 
on  us  ;  or  fill  some  relation  to  us.  It  implies 
that  we  have  sought  Him,  that  He  has  promised, 
but  that  He  delays  to  answer  our  request.  It 
proves  that  no  substitute  can  be  found.  This 
promise  suggests  that  there  may  be  fears,  lest 
He  should  not  come  ;  lest  after  all  we  should  be 
disappointed.  This  supposes,  that  there  may  be 
temptations  to  distrust  the  love,  faithfulness, 
and  goodness  of  God  ;  to  think  they  shall  be 
ashamed  of  having  sought,  believed,  or  expected 
that  the  Lord  would  appear.  But  this  precious 
promise  secures  the  waiting  soul  from  shame, 
disappointment,  and  confusion;  it  assures  us 
that  the  Lord  will  appear,  answer,  and  bless 
in  His  own  time,  and  in  His  own  way.  Are 
you  tempted  ? — wait  for  the  Lord.  Are  you 
afflicted  ? — wait  upon  God.  Are  you  sorely 
tried  ? — wait  patiently  for  the  Lord ;  He  will 
not  suffer  you  to  be  ashamed.  Abraham  waited, 
and  received  the  promise.  Joseph  waited,  and 
was  raised  to  honor.  David  waited,  and  had  all 
his  desire. 

Affliction  is  a  stormy  deep, 

Where  wave  resounds  to  wave ;  1 

Though  o'er  ray  head  the  billows  roll, 

I  know  the  Lortl  can  sate  : 
I'll  wait,  and  bow  beneath  the  rod  ; 
My  hope,  my  confidence  is  God. 


361 


IG 


DECEMBER   23. 


Hia  eoul  shall  dwell  at  ease.     Ps.  xxv.  13. 

The  man  that  fears  God  must  have  faith  in 
His  word  ;  love  to  His  character ;  a  desire  to 
please  Him  in  all  things  ;  a  fear  to  offend  Him 
in  anytiiing ;  a  realization  of  His  omniscience ; 
and  be  looking  forward  to  His  appearing.  Be- 
loved, is  this  our  character  ?  It  is  said  of  such, 
"  His  SOUL  SHALL  DWELL  AT  EASE  j"  free  from 
slavish  fears — from  soul-distressing  cares  and 
anxieties — in  a  state  of  contentment  and  solid 
peace.  And  well  he  may ;  for  he  has  God  for 
his  portion — ^the  eternal  covenant  as  his  stay — 
the  precious  promises  as  his  security — the  glo- 
rious atonement  for  his  plea — a  complete  salva- 
tion for  his  shield — providence  as  his  friend — 
Christ  as  his  constant  Advocate,  Captain,  and 
Man-of-war — daily  fellowship  with  God  as  his 
relief — and  heaven  as  his  final  home.  His  soul 
shall  lodge,  or  dwell  in  goodness :  so  some  read 
it.  The  goodness  of  God  is  the  storehouse  of 
every  blessing,  and  will  supply  his  every  want — 
silence  all  his  fears — contradict  all  his  unbeliev- 
ing doubts — and  exalt  him  to  peace  and  honor. 
Beloved,  let  us  not  be  anxious  about  anything, 
but  casting  all  our  cares  upon  God,  let  us  dwell 
at  ease. 

Once  the  world  was  all  iny  treasure  ; 

Then  the  world  my  heart  possess'd  ; 
Now  I  taste  sublimer  pleasure, 
Since  the  Lord  has  made  me  blest ; 

I  can  witness, 
Jesus  gives  His  people  rest. 
362 


DECEMBER    24. 


IVTiom  resist,  steadfast  in  the  faith.     1  Pet.  v.  9. 

Satan  is  the  Christian's  unwearied  foe,  he  is 
the  enemy  of  all  righteousness,  and  aims  at  our 
destruction.  He  is  especially  the  enemy  of  our 
faith  —  comfort  —  prosperity  —  and  usefulness. 
He  is  our  enemy  before  God,  and  he  gets  access 
to  our  hearts ;  he  excites  to  sin,  accuses  of  sin, 
and  terrifies  for  sin.  We  are  called  upon  to 
resist  him,  steadfastly  believing  God's  word — 
faithfulness — and  love.  Steadfastly  believing 
what  Christ  is  to  us,  as  Satan's  grand  opponent. 
Is  Satan  a  deadly  serpent? — Jesus  is  the  bra- 
zen serpent  which  heals.  Is  Satan  a  roaring 
lion? — Jesus  is  the  lion  of  the  tribe  of  Judah 
who  prevails.  Is  Satan  a  destroyer  ? — Jesus  is 
a  Saviour.  Is  Satan  an  adversary? — Jesus  is  a 
friend.  Is  Satan  a  wolf? — Jesus  is  the  good 
Shepherd.  Is  Satan  a  tempter  ? — Jesus  is  a  De- 
liverer. Is  Satan  a  deceiver  and  a  liar  ? — Jesus 
is  the  truth.  Is  Satan  an  accuser?  Jesus  is  an 
Advocate.  Is  Satan  the  prince  of  darkness? — 
Jesus  is  the  light  of  life.  Is  Satan  a  murderer  ? 
Jesus  is  the  resurrection.  Is  Satan  god  of  this 
world? — Jesus  is  God  over  all.  Resist  the 
devil  in  the  faith  of  this.     Jesus  is  all  you  need. 


All  power  is  to  our  Jesus  given  ; 

O'er  earth's  rebellious  sons  He  reigns ; 
He  mildly  rules  the  hosts  of  heaven, 

And  holds  the  powers  of  hell  in  chains. 
Jesus,  the  woman's  conquering  seed. 
Shall  bruise  for  us  the  serpent's  head. 


363 


DECEMBER    2  5. 


/  will  be  glorified.     Lev.  x.  3. 

This  is  the  great  end  Jehovah  has  in  view  in  all 
He  performs,  and  all  He  permits.  Ho  created 
and  He  preserves  the  world,  that  He  might  be 
glorified.  He  redeemed  His  people  by  the  blood 
of  His  Son,  and  He  will  gloril'y  His  saints  with 
Himself,  to  the  same  end.  He  will  be  glorified 
in  His  sovereignty,  doing  as  He  will — in  His 
supremacy,  commanding  as  He  pleases — in  His 
wisdom,  disposing  of  His  creatures  to  secure  His 
design — in  His  grace,  saving  an  innumerable 
company  of  the  lost  and  wretched,  to  sound  His 
praise  forever — in  His  goodness,  supplying  the 
wants  of  all  His  creatures,  though  in  rebellion 
against  Him — in  His  justice,  punishing  the 
daring  impenitent  offender.  Beloved,  it  is  our 
duty  to  aim  at  the  glory  of  our  God  in  all 
things.  Does  Jehovah  command  ? — then  we 
should  observe  His  commands  and  obey  them 
Does  He  graciously  promise,  and  in  wisdom 
and  mercy  provide  ? — then  we  should  trust,  rely, 
and  depend  on  Him.  Does  He  work  in  provi- 
dence and  grace  ? — then  we  should  acknowl- 
edge His  hand,  submit  to  His  wisdom,  bow  at 
His  throne,  fear  to  sin  against  Him,  or  grieve 
His  love. 

Lord,  turn  the  stream  of  nature's  tide ; 

Let  all  our  actions  tend 
To  Tliee  their  Source ;  Thy  love  the  guide 

Tliy  glory  be  the  end  : 
In  all  we  think,  or  say,  or  do, 
Thy  glory  may  we  still  pursue. 
364 


DECEMBER    2  6. 


This  honor  have  all  His  saints.     Ps.  cxlix.  9. 

What  honor  ?  Of  being  redeemed  by  the  blood 
of  the  Lamb,  out  of  every  nation,  country, 
people,  and  tongue.  Of  being  born  again,  not 
of  corruptible  seed,  but  of  incorruptible ;  by 
the  word  of  God  which  liveth  and  abideth  for- 
ever. Of  being  acknowledged  as  the  sons  of 
God  ;  "  Beloved,  now  are  we  the  sons  of  God, 
and  it  doth  not  yet  appear  what  we  shall  be  ; 
but  when  He  shall  appear  we  shall  be  like 
Him,  for  we  shall  see  Him  as  He  is."  Of  be- 
ing closely  allied  to  Jesus  ;  He  is  not  ashamed 
to  call  them  brethren.  Of  being  heirs  of  God  ; 
"  If  children  then  heirs,  heirs  of  God  and  joint- 
heirs  with  Jesus  Christ."  Of  being  delivered 
from  slavery  to  serve  God  in  liberty;  "  that  be- 
ing delivered  out  of  the  iiands  of  our  enemies 
we  might  serve  Him  without  fear,  in  holiness 
and  righteousness  before  Him  all  the  days  of 
our  life."  Of  being  appointed  to  sit  in  judg- 
ment with  Christ ;  Know  ye  not  that  we  shall 
judge  angels  ?  "  This  honor  have  all  his 
SAINTS."  Are  we  saints  ?  Do  we  walk  as  be- 
cometh  saints  ?  Are  we  living  under  the  influ- 
ence of  these  great  privileges  ?  Let  us  admire, 
adore,  and  obey. 

Pause,  my  soui,  adore  and  wonder ; 
Ask,  "  Oh,  why  such  love  to  me  ? 
Grace  hath  put  me  in  the  number 
Of  the  Saviour's  family  ; 
Hallelujah ! 
Thanks,  eternal  thanks  to  Thee." 

365 


DECEMBER    27. 


1  would  have  you  without  carefulness. 
1  Cor.  vii.  32. 

Anxiety,  or  carefulness,  is  very  injurious ;  it 
divides  the  lieart,  distracts  the  mind,  chokes  the 
word,  leads  to  distrust,  and  destroys  our  peace. 
It  is  inconsistent  with  our  profession ;  we  have 
resigned  all.  into  the  hands  of  the  Lord,  and 
should  leave  all  to  His  blessing.  We  should 
do  everything  as  for  the  Lord,  and  consider  our 
families,  our  property,  and  our  business,  as  the 
Lord's ;  so  should  we  be  holy  and  enjoy  peace. 
Anxiety,  or  inordinate  care,  dishonors  God  ;  it 
reflects  upon  His  sufficiency  to  supply  all — 
upon  His  omniscience  to  discover  all — upon  His 
authority  and  ability  to  manage  all — upon  His 
mercy,  bounty,  and  liberality,  as  if  He  would 
leave  us  to  want — upon  His  veracity,  fidelity, 
and  immutability,  as  though  His  word  may  be 
forfeited  or  His  promise  broken.  Carefulness 
injures  our  own  souls — it  is  opposed  to  content- 
ment and  resignatidn — it  nourishes  impatience 
and  unbelief — it  hinders  our  usefulness,  and 
hardens  our  hearts — it  cuts  off  supplies,  and 
procures  the  rod  and  the  frown.  We  should 
therefore  aim  to  be  without  carefulness,  for 
the  Lord  careth  for  us. 

How  sweet  to  have  our  portion  there, 
Where  sorrow  never  comes,  nor  care, 

And  nothing  will  remove  ! 
We  then  may  hear  without  a  sigh, 
The  world's  destruction  to  be  nigh — 

Our  treasure  is  above. 
366 


DECEMBER  3§. 


Let  us  not  be  io;ary  in  wiU-dnnj.     Gal.  vi.  9. 

It  is  not  enough  for  us  to  be  doing,  we  should 
be  doing  good.  We  are  redeemed  and  new- 
created  for  this  very  purpose.  Let  lis  act  as 
before  God,  for  the  good  of  man ;  let  us  co.m- 
MUNiCATt:  advice,  encouragement,  or  relief,  in  the 
fear  of  God,  and  for  His  glory.  What  is  done 
well,  is  done  in  a  good  spirit,  even  the  spirit  of 
love — humility — and  prayer  ;  it  is  done  from  a 
good  motive,  even  the  love  of  Christ ;  is  done 
by  a  good  rule,  the  commandment  of  the  ever- 
lasting God  :  is  done  to  a  good  end,  the  glory  of 
Him  who  hath  called  and  commanded  us.  Bat 
we  are  prone  to  get  weary  of  dning,  especially 
if  we  are  hasty — or  meet  with  disappointments 
—or  look  at  creatures — or  consult  our  own  ease. 
But  let  us  not  lose  heart  in  the  work,  neither 
let  us  give  it  over;  for  in  due  season  we  shall 
reap  if  we  faint  not.  This  is  sowing  time,  but 
reaping  time  will  come  ;  let  us  therefore  go  on  in 
divine  strength — with  holy  fortitude — with  fixed 
determination — and  resigning  ourselves  daily  to 
God.  We  shall  reap  in  due  season  if  we  faint 
not ;  for  God  is  orderly — faithful — bounteous — 
gracious;  He  will  not  forget  our  work  and  labor 
of  love  ;  but  will  reward  even  a  cup  of  cold 
water,  given  to  a  disciple  in  His  name. 

Put  thou  thy  trust  in  God, 
In  duty's  path  go  on  ; 
Fix  on  His  word  thy  steadfast  eye, 
So  shall  thy  -work  be  done. 

set 


DECEMBER   29. 


All  things  work  together  for  good.     Rom.  viii.  28. 

All  the  Lord's  people  love  God.  They  do 
not  love  Him  as  they  desire,  yet  they  cleave 
to  Him  and  follow  on  to  know  Him.  He  is 
their  God,  and  has  called  them  according  to 
His  own  purpose  and  grace,  which  was  given 
them  in  Jesus  Christ  before  the  world  began, 
and  it  becomes  the  Christian  to  view  every- 
thing as  having  its  place  in  God's  economy ; 
and  its  work  to  do  in  accomplishing  God's  pur- 
poses. Angels,  men  and,  devils,  but  perform 
His  pleasure.  All  things  are  connected  by  the 
infinite  wisdom  and  good  pleasure  of  the  Most 
High.  He  superintends  every  movement  of 
every  one  of  His  creatures  ;  and  directs  them  to 
answer  His  purpose  and  end.  He  overrules 
everything  for  our  good  ;  we  never  lose  any- 
thing worth  keeping  by  any  of  His  dispensa- 
tions. We  may  gain  by  all  that  occurs;  we 
may  gain  wisdom — holiness — matter  for  prayer 
or  praise — work  for  faith,  patience,  or  hope. 
However,  our  best  interests  are  secured ;  every- 
thing is  working  for  the  good  of  the  church  ; 
and  though  it  be  a  rough,  it  is  a  right  way  to 
our  heavenly  Father's  house. 

All  things  on  earth,  and  all  in  heaven, 
On  God's  eternal  will  depend ; 
And  all  for  greater  good  were  given, 
And  all  shall  in  His  glory  end : 
This  be  my  care !  and  this  alone ; 
Father,  in  me  Thy  will  be  done. 

S68 


DECEMBER    30. 


Twill  never  leave  thee,  nor  forsake  thee. 
Heb.  xiii.  5. 

If  the  Lord  is  with  us,  all  will  be  well ;  but  He 
has  promised  to  be  with  us  always,  even  unto 
the  end.  Any  one  but  our  God  would  have 
left  us  long  ago  ;  but  He  is  long-suffering,  full 
of  compassion,  and  of  great  mercy.  He  will 
be  our  God  to  all  eternity,  and  will  conduct  us 
through  life  with  safety.  He  will  be  with  us  in 
every  trouble,  to  support  us  ;  in  every  trial,  to 
comfort  us  ;  in  every  difficulty,  to  provide  for  us  ; 
in  every  danger,  to  deliver  us ;  and  under  all  cir- 
cumstances, to  bless  us.  He  will  be  with  us  as 
our  heavenly  Father — as  our  firm  and  faithful 
FriencL — as  our  God ;  and  we  shall  be  with  Hun 
by-and-bye,  as  His  children,  dependants,  and 
jewels,  to  be  glorified  with  Him  forever.  Be- 
loved, let  us  rejoice  in  this,  that  God  will  never 
leave  us ;  death  may  rob  us,  friends  may  leave 
us,  troubles  may  come  upon  us ;  but  our  God 
will  not  forsake  His  people  for  His  great  name's 
sake,  because  it  hatli  pleased  the  Lord  to  make 
them  His  people.  Having  loved  His  own,  He 
will  love  them  unto  the  end. 


Since  He  has  said,  "  I'll  ne'er  depart," 
I'll  bind  His  promise  to  my  heart, 

Rejoicing  in  His  care  : 
This  shall  support  while  here  I  live, 
And  when  in  glory  I  arrive, 

I'll  praise  Him  for  it  there. 


369 


DECEMBER    31. 


A  friend  loveth  at  all  times.     Prov.  xvii.  17. 

Where  shall  we  find  such  a  friend  ?  He  that 
redeems  from  slavery,  and  delivers  from  bond- 
age, is  such  a  friend — but  Jesus  does  this.  He 
that  restores  to  the  favor  of  the  judge  who 
condemned,  or  the  Lord  who  delivered  over  to 
bondage,  is  such  a  friend — but  Jesus  does  this. 
He  that  admits  to  intimacy  with  himself,  out  of 
pure  love,  notwithstanding  disparity  of  condi- 
tion, is  such  a  friend — but  Jesus  does  this.  He 
who  counsels  in  trouble,  and  gives  the  best  ad- 
vice in  perplexity,  is  such  a  friend — but  Jesus 
does  this.  He  who  rescues  from  foes  and  ren- 
ders their  attempts  to  injure  us  abortive,  is  such 
a  friend — but  Jesus  does  this.  He  who  takes 
in  the  rejected  and  homeless,  who  clothes  the 
naked  and  feeds  the  hungry,  is  such  a  friend — 
but  Jesus  does  this.  He  who  exposes  Himself 
to  pain,  injury,  insult,  and  death,  to  do  us  good, 
is  such  a  friend — but  Jesus  has  done  this.  He 
who  expends  all  His  property  for  our  welfare, 
is  such  a  friend — but  Jesus  did  this.  He  who 
kindly  reproves  our  faults  in  prosperity,  and 
visits,  comforts,  and  relieves  in  adversity,  is 
such  a  friend — but  Jesus  does  this.  He  who 
loves  us  through  life,  in  death,  and  forever,  is 
such  a  friend — but  Jesus  doth  so.     He  is  the 

FRIEND    WHO     LOVETH     AT     ALL     TIMES  ;     changing 

scenes  change  not  His  affection.  His  friend- 
ship flows  from  purest  love,  and  is  founded  in 
a  perfect   knowledge   of  our  persons — wants — 

370 


DECEMBER   31. 


dispositions — and  propensities  ;  His  friendship 
is  maintained  by  infinite  patience — ^boundless 
pity — and  the  prospect  of  our  being  glorified 
with  Him  forever.  He  knows  our  frame, 
consults  our  welfare,  and  is  determined  to  do  us 
good.  He  will  not  allow  us  to  lose  by  any  of 
His  dispensations ;  but  will  increase  our  spirit- 
ual wealth  by  all  means.  The  friendship  of 
Jesus  secures  all  good,  and  prevents  all  evil ; 
He  will  never  fail  us,  nor  forsake  us.  He  com- 
menced His  friendship  with  a  view  to  extend 
it  through  eternity ;  and  it  is  the  same  at  the 
close  of  the  year  as  it  was  in  the  beginning. 
O  Jesus !  let  us  love  Thee  with  pure  affection 
— walk  with  Thee  in  sweetest  friendship — and 
prove  ourselves  Thy  friends  in  every  place. 
Be  Thou  our  Friend — Counsellor — Brother — Sa- 
viour— Lord — and  God — in  life,  death,  and  for- 
ever.    Amen. 

One  there  is,  above  all  others, 

Well  deserves  the  name  of  Friend  ; 

His  is  love  beyond  a  brother's, 
Costly,  free,  and  knows  no  end : 

They  who  once  His  kindness  prove, 

Find  it  everlasting  love ! 

Which,  of  all  our  friends,  to  save  us. 
Could  or  would  have  shed  his  blood  ? 

But  our  Jesus  died  to  have  us 
Reconciled  in  Him  to  God  ! 

This  was  boundless  love  indeed — 

Jesus  is  a  friend  in  need. 


371 


IMPORTANT  INQUIRIES. 


Do  you  believe  on  the  Son  of  God  ?  Do  you  so  be- 
lieve on  Ilim  as  to  look  to  Him  for  salvation — trust  in 
Him  for  life  and  peace — prefer  Him  to  health,  wealth,  or 
pleasure  ? 

Do  you  deny  yourself,  and  aim  to  please  God  in  all 
things — often  asking  yourself,  Will  this  action,  or  this 
course,  please  God,  and  bring  glory  to  His  name  ? 

Do  you  consider  yourself  a  witness  for  God,  being 
bound  to  witness  against  sin — and  to  the  world,  that 
the  works  of  it  are  evil  ?  Do  you  witness,  by  your  daily 
walk  and  conversation  ?  Do  you  always  take  God's  side 
against  sin  and  sinners — and  plead  with  God  for  their 
salvation  ? 

Do  you  live  and  act  under  the  full  persuasion  that  you 
must  give  an  account  of  yourself  to  God  ?  That  your 
account  may  be  demanded  suddenly  ?  That  it  may  be 
called  for  to-day  ? 

Are  you  walking  close  with  God,  relying  only  on  the 
perfect  work  of  Christ  for  justification  and  acceptance 
with  God  ? 

Are  you  living  to  self,  or  to  God  ?  Do  you  seek 
your  own,  or  another's  welfare  ?  Do  you  distribute 
tracts,  and  speak  a  word  for  Jesus,  whenever  you  have 
an  opportunity  ? 

Do  you  attend  the  means  of  grace  on  week-days  ? 
Arc  you  justified  in  remaining  at  home  when  the 
Lord's  people  meet  ?  Does  not  your  conduct  betray  a 
lukewarm,  indifferent  state  ?  God  says,  "  Forsake  not 
the  assembling  of  yourselves  together,  as  the  manner  of 
some  is." 

372 


IMPORTANT   INQUIRIES. 


Are  you  a  decided  Christian?  Have  you  been  born 
of  the  Spirit  ?  Is  there  no  doubt  upon  this  point  ? 
Have  you  made  your  calHng  and  election  sure  ?  You 
should  do  so. 

Do  you  indulge  in  any  known  sin,  or  neglect  any 
known  duty  ?     This  is  a  dark  sign,  beware  of  it. 

How  do  you  feel  towards  perishing  sinners?  Can 
you  see  them  perish  without  sympathy  or  concern? 
What  are  you  doing  to  convince  them  of  their  danger 
and  lead  them  to  Jesus?  What  have  you  done  for 
your  relatives — your  near  neighbors  ?  What  have  you 
done  to-day  ?     What  are  you  going  to  do  ? 

Are  you  praying  for  grace  and  gifts,  with  a  view  to 
do  good  ?  That  you  may  watch  for  souls,  and  labor 
for  God  ? 

Were  you  ever  the  means  of  converting  one  soul  to 
God  ?  Did  you  ever  pray  that  you  might  be  ?  Do  you 
use  the  means  that  are  likely,  under  the  blessing  of  God, 
to  convert  souls  ? 

Which  has  most  of  your  thoughts,  affections,  and 
money — worldly  ornaments,  or  the  conversion  and  sal- 
vation of  sinnei-s  ? 

Do  you  know  anything  of  travailing  in  birth  for 
sinnera  until  Christ  be  formed  in  them?  Is  it  your 
heart's  desire  and  prayer  to  God  that  they  may  be 
saved  ? 

Are  you  willing  to  make  sacrifices  for  Christ  ?  Can 
you  cheerfully  give  up  your  time,  your  money,  your 
ease,  and  your  many  indulgences,  for  the  good  and  sal- 
vation of  souls  ? 

373 


IMPORTANT   INQUIRIES. 


Are  you  reconciled  to  God  ?  Can  you  approach  Him 
as  a  Friend  ?  Do  you  love  Him  as  a  Father  ?  Do  you 
obey  Him  as  a  Master  ?  Do  you  love  His  word — His 
people — and  His  day  ?  In  vain  do  you  profess  to  love 
Him,  if  you  do  nothing  for  Him. 

Are  you  hke  Jesus,  going  about  doing  good  ?  Do 
you  visit  the  sick — pity  the  poor — and  seek  the  salvation 
of  all  around  you  ? 

Do  you  consider  your  present  life  as  an  opportunity 
given  you  to  serve  and  please  God  ?  Do  you  improve 
it  as  such  ?  Jesus  says,  "  Son,  go  work  to-day  in  my 
vineyard."  Your  work  is  day  work,  and  should  run 
through  every  day. 

Do  you  daily  hve  under  the  impression,  "  I  am  respon- 
sible. I  am  responsible  for  my  time — talents — and  op- 
portunities to  do  good  ?" 

Are  you  growing  in  grace?  Is  the  heart  hard  or 
soft  ?  Is  Christ  precious  ?  Are  you  willing  to  receive 
all  He  has,  and  to  do  all  He  bids  ?  To  make  a  complete 
Saviour  of  Him,  imitating  His  example,  as  well  as  trust- 
ing in  His  blood? 

Are  you  prepared  for  death?  You  will  soon  be 
summoned ;  how  much  better  to  be  summoned  from  the 
field  of  labor  than  the  bed  of  sloth !  "  Work  while  it 
is  called  to-day,  for  the  night  cometh  when  no  man  can 
work." 

Are  you  looking  for  the  glorious  appearing  of  the 
Lord  Jesus,  who  will  come  to  be  glorified  in  His 
saints,  and  to  reward  every  man  according  to  nis 

"WORKS  ? 

374 


IMPORTANT  INQUIRIES. 


Are  you  really  a  child  of  God  ?  Have  you  really  the 
Spirit  of  Christ  ?  Do  you  live  by  faith  on  the  Son  of 
God? 

Do  you  look  to  the  Lord  Jesus  alone  for  life  and  sal- 
vation ?  Are  you  living  upon  Him  as  the  bread  of  life 
— walking  in  Him  as  the  way  to  the  Father — and  obey- 
ing Him  as  the  Lord  of  all  ? 

Are  you  regular  in  your  attendance  on  the  ordinances 
of  the  gospel  ?  Or  do  you  prefer  ease,  increasing  wealth, 
or  gratifying  friends,  to  meeting  with  saints,  obeying 
Jesus,  and  seeking  grace  ? 

Do  you  confine  your  efforts  and  sympathies  to  a  sect, 
or  are  you  seeking  the  benefit  of  all  ? 

Do  you  subscribe  to  the  Missionary — Bible — and 
Tract  Societies  ?  Do  you  do  so  according  to  your 
ability  ? 

Do  you  meet  with  the  Church  to  pray,  and  unite 
with  the  Church  to  work  ? — or  are  you  only  a  cumber- 
ground  ? 

Do  you  ever  ask.  How  will  my  present  course  appear 
on  a  dying  bed?  or  when  I  stand  before  the  judgment- 
seat  of  Christ  ? 

Are  you  keeping  up  that  distinction  between  your- 
self and  the  world,  which  should  always  characterize 
the  Lord's  people  ?  "  Have  no  fellowship  with  the 
unfruitful  works  of  darkness,  but  rather  reprove  them." 

Do  you  bear  the  image,  delight  in  the  law,  and  aim 
always  at  the  glory  of  Jesus  ? 

375 


TABLE  OF  TEXTS. 

Page 

Page 

Gen.     xii.    2  .  . 

.    .    281 

Neb.      IV.  14  ...  .  233 

XV.     1   .   . 

.  .     26 

Job       vii.  20  . 

310 

xxii.  14  .  . 

.  .  272 

xvii.     9  . 

355 

XXV.  22  .  . 

.  .   106 

xxxiii.  13  . 

350 

XXX.     2  .  . 

.  .  304 

xxxiv.  32  . 

125 

xxxii.     9  .  . 

.  .   158 

Psalm    ix.  12  . 

266 

xxxii.  12  .  . 

.  .  117 

ix.  18  . 

232 

xxxii.  29  .  . 

.  .   152 

X.  14  .  . 

287 

xxxiii,  10,  11   .  . 

.  .   262 

xi.    5  . 

56 

Exod.    iii,    7  .  . 

.   .   191 

xxii.     6  . 

14 

iii.  12  .  . 

.  .   150 

xxii.  11   . 

74 

xiv.  15  .  . 

.  .  316 

xxiii.     1   , 

96 

xxxii.  26  .  . 

.  .   280 

xxiii.     1   . 

97 

xxxiii.  14  .  . 

.  .  236 

XXV.  13  . 

362 

Lev.        X.    3  .  . 

.  .  364 

XXV.  20  . 

360 

Num.    xi.  23   .  , 

.  .     55 

xxix.  11   . 

197 

xxxii.  23  .  . 

.   .   290 

XXX.     5  . 

83 

Deut.     iv.  31  .  . 

.  .  187 

xxxi.  15  . 

42 

xxxiii.    3  .  . 

.  .     94 

xxxi.  23  . 

257 

xxxiii.     3  .  . 

.  .  175 

xxxii.     8  . 

30 

xxxiii.  25  .  . 

.  .  170 

xxxiv.  10  . 

239 

Jos.     xvii.  14  .  . 

.   .   138 

xxxviii.     6  . 

16 

1  Sara.    ii.    1  .  . 

.  .  347 

xl.  17  . 

220 

xii.  24  .  . 

.  .  323 

xlii.  11   . 

47 

xxix.    3  .  . 

.  .   179 

xlvi.  10  . 

211 

1  Kings  iii.    5  .  . 

.  .  351 

1.15  . 

309 

2  Kings  iv.  23   .  . 

.  .   144 

li.  10  . 

344 

iv.  26  .  . 

.  .     20 

Iv.  22  . 

271 

iChr.xxix.  14  .  . 

.  .     62 

Ivi.    3  . 

201 

2Chr.xxx.20  .  . 

.  .  342 

^              Ivi.    9  . 

45 

376 

TABLE    OF   TEXTS. 

Page 

Page 

Ps.     Ixvii.     6  .   . 

.  240 

Song        i.    4  .  . 

.    .    286 

Ixxi.  16  .   .  . 

.  343 

Isaiah      i.    3  .  . 

.  .  200 

Ixxi.  17  .  . 

.  318 

ii.  22  .  . 

.  .     93 

Ixxii.  17  .  . 

.  230 

viii.  10  .  . 

.  .   192 

Ixxiii.  24  .  , 

.  209 

viii.  17  .  . 

.   .   213 

Ixxviii.  41   .  . 

.  313 

xxvi.    4  .  . 

.  .  277 

Ixxxi.  10  .  . 

.  332 

xxvii.  11   .  . 

.  .      34 

Ixxxiv.  11   .  , 

.   168 

XXX.  15  .  . 

.  .   234 

Ixxxiv.  11  .  . 

.  305 

XXX.  19   .    . 

.  .   324 

Ixxxvi.    7  .  . 

.  297 

xxxviii.  20   .  . 

.  .   269 

Ixxxvii.    7  .  . 

.  155 

xl.     8  .  . 

.   .   256 

xci.  15  .  . 

.     95 

xl.  29  .  . 

.   .     90 

cii.  27  .  . 

.      19 

xli.  10  .  . 

.  .     69 

ciii.    9  .  . 

.  247 

xli.  13   .   . 

.   .      12 

cxi.    5  .  . 

.   222 

xliii.  12  .  . 

.  .   163 

cxvi.    4  .  , 

.   227 

xliii.  25   .  . 

.  .   193 

cxvi.    7  .  . 

.  339 

xliv.    5  .  . 

.   .      92 

cxix.  19  .  . 

.  215 

xliv.  21   ,  . 

.   .   132 

cxix.  37  .  . 

.   114 

xlv.  21   .  . 

.  .   208 

cxix.  42  .  . 

.  334 

xlv.  22  .  . 

.   .        5 

cxix.  94  .  . 

.   186 

xlvi.    4  .  . 

.  .  264 

cxix.  117  .  . 

.  209 

xlvi.  10  .  . 

.   .   195 

cxix.  106  .  . 

.  .   268 

xlviii.  16  .  . 

.   .   223 

cxxx.    7  .  . 

.   165 

xlix.  23   .  . 

.   .  361 

cxxxix.  23  ,  . 

.     43 

li.  12  .   . 

.   ,   122 

cxliii.     9  .  . 

.  .     98 

Iii.     7   .   . 

.  .      80 

cxliv.     3   .  . 

.  .     78 

liv.    5  .  . 

.   .      65 

cxlv.  18  .  . 

.   235 

liv.  17  .  . 

.   .   137 

cxlv.  20  .  . 

.  237 

Iv.    4  .   . 

.  .   199 

cxlix.     9  .  . 

.   365 

Ixi.     2  .  . 

.  .  258 

Prov.     iii.    6  .  . 

.   153 

Ixii.    4  .  . 

.   .     49 

iii.  26  .  . 

.   294 

Ixii.  11   .  . 

.  .  298 

xii.  13  .  . 

.   156 

Ixiii.    7  .  . 

.  .   338 

xvii.  17   .  . 

.  370 

Jer.        iii.  13  .  , 

.  .  283 

XX.  22  .  . 

.   133 

iii.  22  .  . 

.  .   129 

xxiii.  26   .  . 

.  .   185 

iii.  22  .   . 

.  .  291 

xxvii.  18  .  . 

.   196 

xxiii.    6  .  . 

.  .   157 

xxviii.  14  .   . 

.   198 

XXV.     6  .  . 

.   .  282 

Eccl.     vii.  14  .  . 

.  .  231 

XXX.  11    ,    . 

.  .  331 

377 

TABLE    OF   TEXTS. 

Page 

Page 

Jer.    XXX.  17  .  . 

.   .  292 

Matt.  xvii.    5  .  . 

.   .      73 

xxxi.  20  .  . 

.  .     71 

xxi.  28  .  . 

.  .  306 

Lam.      iii.  24  .  . 

.  .  167 

xxii.  42  .  . 

.  .  273 

iii.  25  .  . 

.  .  248 

XXV.    5   .   . 

.  .  246 

iii.  33  .  . 

.  .   135 

xxvi.  36  .   . 

.  .     13 

Hosea     x.    2  .  . 

.  .   189 

Mark     iv.  40  .  . 

.  .     27 

xiv.    4  .  . 

.  .  254 

V.  40  .  . 

.  .  177 

xiv.    5  .  . 

.  .  327 

V.  36  .  . 

.  .     68 

Joel       iii.  16  .  . 

.  .   184 

vi.    6  .  . 

.  .  293 

Jonah     ii.    9  .  . 

.  .  173 

vii.  27  .   . 

.  .  162 

Micali     ii.    7  .  . 

.   .   275 

X.  36  .   . 

.  .  312 

ii.  10  .  . 

.  .  325 

xi.  22  .   . 

.  .   118 

iv.    9  .  . 

.  .   128 

xiii.  37  .  . 

.  .  320 

vi.    8  .  . 

.  .   116 

Luke       i.  17  .  . 

.  .     24 

vii.    7  .  . 

.  .  296 

vi.  20  .  . 

8 

vii.  18  .  . 

.  .     57 

vi.  21  .  . 

.  .   141 

vii.  19  .  . 

.  .   Ill 

vii.  48  .  . 

.  .     88 

Zeph.    iii.  17  .  . 

.  .   103 

viii.  25  .  . 

.  .     87 

iii.  17  .  . 

.  .   142 

X.  19  .  . 

.  .  149 

Hag.       ii.  19  .  . 

.   .  348 

X.  42  .  . 

.  .  102 

Zee.        ii.    8  .  . 

.   .   181 

xii.  15  .  . 

.   .  308 

iii.    5  .  . 

.  .    169 

xvii.     5  .  . 

.  .  104 

xiii.  10  .  . 

.   .     37 

xvii.  32  .  . 

.  .  183 

Mai.        ii.  15  .  . 

.  .    146 

xviii.     7  .  . 

.  .  238 

iii.  17  .  . 

.  .     46 

xxii.  35  .  . 

.  .     31 

iii.  17  .  . 

.  .   139 

xxii.  40  .  . 

.  .   206 

Matt.       i.  23  .  . 

.   .     36 

xxii.  44  .  . 

.   .   130 

V.    8  .  . 

.  .   204 

xxiv.  34   .  . 

.   .     84 

vi.  24  .  . 

.  .     25 

xxiv.  38  .  . 

.   .   108 

vi.  32  .  . 

.  .   279 

xxxii.  40  .  . 

.   .  206 

xi.  28  .  . 

.   .      15 

John        i.  36  .  . 

.   .  319 

xi.  28  .  . 

.  .     85 

i.  50  .  . 

.  .  229 

xii.  50  .  . 

.  .     23 

v.    6  .   . 

.  .  259 

xiv.  16  .  . 

.  .     72 

V.  39  .   . 

.  .     33 

xiv.  18  .  . 

.  .     89 

vi.  20  .  . 

.  .     99 

xiv.  22  .  . 

.  .   143 

vi.  35  .  . 

.  .  119 

XV.  23  .  . 

.  .     82 

vi.  37  .  . 

.   .  253 

xvi.  24  .  . 

.  .     11 

viii.  49  .  . 

.  .     61 

xvii.    4  .  . 

.  .  328 

X.  11   .   . 

.  .  336 

378 

TABLE   OF   TEXTS. 

Page 

Page 

John       X.  15  .  . 

.   .   260 

Rom.    xii,  12  .  . 

.   255 

xiii.     7  .  . 

.   221 

xiii.     8  .  . 

.   225 

xiv.    1  .  . 

.   171 

1  Cor.     i.  31   .  . 

.   216 

xiv.    2   .  . 

.   172 

iii.  13  .  . 

.   337 

xiv.  14  .  . 

.  147 

iv.    7  .  . 

.   120 

xiv.  15  .  . 

.  358 

vi.  19  .  . 

.     28 

xiv.  18  .  . 

.  .   174 

vii.  29  .  . 

.   329 

xiv.  21  .  .  . 

.   285 

vii.  32  .  . 

.   366 

xiv.  27  .  . 

.  330 

X.  13  .  . 

.  178 

XV.    4  .  . 

.  207 

xi.  28  .  . 

.   151 

XV.    5  .  . 

.   100 

xiv.    1  .  . 

.   194 

XV.  14  .  . 

.     29 

2  Cor.     i.  10  .  . 

.   214 

XV.  26  .  . 

.  190 

iii.    5   .  . 

.   113 

xvi.  14  .  . 

.   105 

V.    7  .  . 

.   140 

xvi.  22  .   . 

.  333 

V.  20  .  . 

,  326 

xvi.  24  .  . 

.     91 

vi.     1   .   . 

.  212 

xvii.  20  .  . 

.  349 

vi.    2  .  . 

.     52 

xix.    5  .  . 

.   121 

vi.  10  .  . 

.   317 

Acts      ix.     5  .  . 

.  302 

vi.  13  .  . 

.   314 

ix.    6  ,  . 

.   161 

vi.  18  .  . 

.   126 

xi.  23  .  . 

.     38 

xii.     9  .  . 

.   182 

xiii.  34  .  . 

.  359 

xii.    9  .  . 

.  295 

Rom.     iii.  11  .  . 

.  210 

xii.  11  .  . 

.   123 

iii.  24  .  . 

.  245 

Gal.         i.    4  .  . 

.  226 

V.  11    .  . 

.     35 

ii.  20  .  . 

.     58 

vi.    4  .  . 

.  301 

ii.  20  .  . 

.     59 

vi.  14  .  . 

.   267 

iii.  20  .  . 

.  .        7 

vi.  14  .  . 

.  278 

iv,    7  .  . 

.  315 

vii.    4  .  . 

.  244 

iv.    7  .  , 

,  .  335 

vii.  21  .  . 

.     21 

V.     1   .   , 

,   115 

vii.  21   .  . 

.     22 

vi.    9  ,  , 

.   367 

viii.  26  .  . 

.  242 

Eph,        i.    6  ,  . 

,  134 

viii.  28  .  . 

.  368 

i,  13  ,  . 

,  252 

viii.  31   .  . 

.  164 

ii.    7  ,  . 

,  .   159 

viii.  33  .  . 

.  .  176 

ii.    7  .  . 

.  .  160 

viii.  33  .  . 

.  288 

iii.    8  ,  , 

.  243 

xi.  20  .  . 

.  250 

iv,  30  ,  . 

.     50 

xi.  26  .  . 

.   249 

V.     1    .   . 

.  270 

xii.     1   .  , 

.  .  241 

V.     2  .  . 

.  348 

370 

TABLE    OF   TEXTS 


Eph. 
Phil. 


Col. 


V.  15 
V.  23 
iii.  8 
iii.  9 
iii.  9 
iii.  18 
iii.  20 
iv.  4 
iv.  6 
iv.  19 
ii.  10 
iii.  1 
iii.  2 
iii.  11 
iii.  15 
iii.  16 
iThess.  ii.  12 
V.  17 
V.  18 

1  Tim.  iii.  16 

iv.  10 
vi.  12 

2  Tim.  ii.  13 
Tit.  iii.  2 
Heb.      ii.  15 

iii.  1 
vi.  9 
vi."  15 
vi.  20 

viii.  10 
X.  35 
xi.  37 

xii.    2  . 

xii.    5  . 

xii.  28  ■ 

xiii.    5  . 

xiii.    5  . 


Pago 

Page 

18 

Heb. 

xiii.  6  .  , 

.  .  321 

351 

James 

i.  4  .  . 

.  .  261 

43 

i.  6  .  . 

.  .  17 

154 

ii.  5  .  . 

.  .  228 

284 

iv.  6  .  , 

.  .  145 

357 

iv.  7  .  . 

.  .  66 

148 

V.  8  .  . 

.  .  53 

136 

1  Pet. 

i.  8  .  . 

.  .  205 

10 

i.  19  .  . 

.  .  40 

251 

ii.  7  .  . 

.  .  41 

109 

ii.  9  .  . 

.  .  180 

77 

iv.  7  .  . 

.  .  263 

110 

iv.  16  .  . 

.  .  79 

60 

v.  5  .  . 

.  .  202 

6 

V.  7  .  . 

.  .  54 

356 

V.  9  .  . 

.  .  363 

70 

2  Pet. 

i.  1  .  . 

.  .  39 

131 

i.  4  .  . 

.  .  86 

303 

i.  10  .  . 

.  .  354 

81 

ii.  7  .  . 

.  .  345 

218 

iii.  11  .  . 

.  .  181 

265 

iii.  18  .  . 

.  .  127 

107 

1  John 

ii.  1  .  . 

.  .  32 

322 

ii.  15  .  . 

.  .  64 

9 

iii.  2  .  . 

.  .  75 

274 

iii.  2  ,  . 

.  .  76 

217 

iv.  16  .  . 

.  .  307 

300 

Jude 

21  .  . 

.  .  289 

112 

Rev. 

i.  5  .  . 

.  .  203 

51 

i.  18  .  . 

.  .  63 

346 

ii.  9  .  . 

.  .  124 

311 

iii.  2  .  . 

.  .  44 

353 

V.  12  .  . 

.  .  101 

219 

xix.  6  .  . 

.  .  340 

67 

xxii.  13  .  . 

.  .  166 

276 

xxii.  20  .  . 

.  .  224 

369 

880 


i 

DATE  DUE 

^"^"^ir^TBB 

mmJQi^^ 

HIGHSMITH  m 

^5230 

Printed 
In  USA 

